Many people with cancer face financial difficulties – having to cope with a loss of income as well as additional financial burdens such as expensive hospital travel costs and increased fuel bills as a result of treatment.
Using data from a YouGov poll of 2,011 of people diagnosed with cancer, Macmillan estimate that 10,000 people (2%) with cancer are potentially at risk of losing their homes after missing at least one payment and a further 16,000 people (7%) have had to downsize or sell their homes in the past year.
Macmillan is calling on local and national governments, registered social and private landlords, businesses and the NHS to act urgently to ensure the right support is offered at the right time to ease the terrible financial strain on people living with cancer.
Lynda Thomas, Chief Executive at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Our research shows just how dire the financial situation has become for people with cancer in the UK. We know that each year thousands of cancer patients are left vulnerable and at the brink of financial crisis as they are forced to manage a loss of income and the additional costs of cancer.
“But to think that thousands of people are being forced to sell their homes just to cope with the crippling costs of the disease is completely heartbreaking.
“Particularly as winter approaches and the weather turns colder, no one should have to face the thought of losing their home simply because they have been diagnosed with cancer. It is vital we act now to support and protect the financially vulnerable from having to foot the bill for their disease.”
Macmillan offers financial support, advice and guidance to anyone affected by cancer through its website and phoneline 0808 808 00 00 – available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
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