North Down Ulster Unionist MLAs Leslie Cree and Alan McFarland, were in Stormont last week to find out about the work that Macmillan’s benefits advisers do to help people with the financial costs of a cancer diagnosis.

The objective of the event was aimed at highlighting the fact that the current Northern Ireland Executive consultation on the Cancer Services Framework does not contain a Standard on financial support. As the consultation is due to close on 5^th February Macmillan felt that it was important to recommend that the Framework contain a Standard requiring all people affected by cancer are given information about what financial help (including benefits) is available, how to access that help, and their rights under the Disability Discrimination Act.     

Both Leslie Cree and Alan McFarland talked to Macmillan Cancer Support staff and CAB advisers about how many cancer patients and their families are dealing with a huge financial burden as a result of their illness. Ninety one percent of cancer patients’ households suffer loss of income and/or increased costs as a direct result of cancer. A 2005 National Audit Office report found that 77% of cancer patients are not given financial support information.

Research carried out in partnership with the Social Security Agency for Northern Ireland showed that most cancer patients are unaware that;  they might be entitled to claim statutory benefits, how to access the benefits system and of what services are actually provided by local social security offices or advice providers.

Given the nature of cancer, its treatments and side –effects, most patients are not well enough to attend their Social Security Office, and indeed are advised not to be in a crowded environment in order to prevent infection. It is important that people are informed they are entitled to financial support as early as possible, as applications for financial assistance through the benefits system cannot be backdated. Also, as the decision making process itself is quite long (often up to 16 weeks) the application process needs to start as soon as possible.     

Alan McFarland, said “the second biggest concern for people when they get a cancer diagnosis is the worry about paying their bills – the Macmillan advisers provide a vital service - this should be standard throughout Northern Ireland”

Mr Cree added “we need to help reduce the stress that a cancer sufferer already faces after diagnosis. A Standard on financial support would help to do this.”

Heather Monteverde from Macmillan said, “I am pleased our local politicians took time out to meet our advisors – it is a vital service that all cancer patients should have access to.”

ENDS