Cancer and its treatment can affect your ability to work, and this can be lead to worries. Some people stop working during cancer treatments and for a while after treatment until they feel ready to go back to work. You can talk to your Cancer Nurse Specialist or Cancer Doctor about whether you can work during treatment and for how long you may not feel able to work

Sometimes continuing to work can be helpful to you as it allows a normal routine and something else to think about, contact with friends and colleagues who you may get support from and may be important for your finances. . It can also be helpful to talk to your manager or human resources (HR) manager as they may be able to offer you some changes (reasonable adjustments) such as reduced hours or working from home that may allow you to continue to work. If you are self employed and diagnosed with cancer you may need to make some decisions about your business and talk to your clients if you need to take some time off. Macmillan can offer advice and support using the links below.

Financial support

If your situation changes throughout your cancer journey or after and you need help and support regarding your finances contact your local Macmillan Centre who can advise and get a benefits assessment carried out for you.

Macmillan grants/Support grants

Speak with your local Macmillan Centre who may be able to get you a Macmillan grant if you have not previously had one, or the local council to see what support is available.

Free prescriptions

There's a simple way to find out if you're eligible for free NHS prescriptions and any help with other NHS costs. Click here to use the eligibility checker.

 

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