A cancer diagnosis can have a real impact on your finances and your working life. Treatment appointments, changes to your energy levels and time off work can all affect your income — and the bills don’t stop. The good news is that there is a wide range of financial support available and you have important rights as an employee.
This page brings together the key information and links to trusted resources so you can find the help you need, quickly and without having to search through dozens of websites.
All the information below applies to people living in England. If you’re based in Dorset, Hampshire or the Isle of Wight and would like personal guidance, our team is here to help.
Financial and employment support
Benefits and welfare
−If you’re unable to work due to your diagnosis or treatment, you may be entitled to a range of state benefits. These include:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – to help with daily living and mobility costs
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – if your illness affects your ability to work
- Universal Credit – a single monthly payment if you’re on a low income or out of work
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks
A benefits check can make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. Macmillan’s benefits calculator and Citizens Advice are both excellent starting points.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Grants and emergency funding
+If you’re facing an unexpected financial crisis – such as urgent bills, essential equipment or travel costs for treatment – there are charitable grants and emergency funds that may be able to help quickly.
Macmillan Cancer Support offers a one-off grant of up to £350 to people in financial hardship. The Trussell Trust and local food banks can also provide emergency support for households struggling with food costs.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Employment Rights
+Cancer is recognised as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 from the point of diagnosis. This means your employer is legally required to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to support you at work and you are protected from discrimination.
Reasonable adjustments might include: flexible or reduced hours, working from home, a phased return after treatment or changes to your duties or workload. It’s worth knowing your rights before any conversation with your manager or HR team.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Talking to your boss
+Telling your employer about your diagnosis is a very personal decision. You are not legally obliged to disclose it, but sharing the information often makes it easier to access the support and adjustments you need.
Think about what you want to say in advance, who you want to tell and whether you’d like a trusted colleague or HR representative present. You may want to follow up any verbal conversation in writing to keep a record.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Education support
+If you’re a student or the parent of a child whose education has been affected by cancer, there is support available. Universities and colleges have welfare and disability teams who can arrange extensions, deferrals, and other adjustments. Children who are too unwell to attend school may be entitled to home tuition.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Debt and bill management
+Falling behind on bills or getting into debt through no fault of your own is more common than people realise and it’s nothing to feel ashamed about. Free, confidential debt advice is available and can make a significant difference.
It’s also worth contacting your energy provider, water company and mortgage or landlord as early as possible as many have hardship schemes for people in difficult circumstances.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
Insurance
+Travel insurance, life insurance and income protection insurance can all become more complicated after a cancer diagnosis. You are legally required to disclose a cancer diagnosis to most insurers but there are specialist providers who cater to people with pre-existing medical conditions.
If you feel you’ve been unfairly refused insurance or quoted an unreasonable premium, the Financial Ombudsman Service can help.
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You can learn more by visiting these trusted websites:
