Macmillan continue to offer benefits advice during lockdown

Macmillan Benefits Service Advisors know just how stressful money worries can be for people living with cancer and are working from home to continue to help people access financial support.

Lisa McCloskey is based in the Western Trust and is part of a team of Macmillan Benefits Advisors working across all health trusts across the North.

Last year, the Macmillan service helped to identify more than £9 million in benefits for people living with cancer.

Lisa said that people need help now more than ever.

“Like all Macmillan Advisors, I’m usually office-based. While we’re all following government advice to stay at home during these unprecedented times, we were determined to find a safe way to continue helping people living with cancer, and their family and carers.

“All Macmillan Advisors are now set up at home and ready to help at the end of the telephone.”

She added: “These are difficult times for us all and people need our help more than ever.

“While money might not be the first thing on your mind after a cancer diagnosis, cancer can be tough on your finances. I talk to people every day who don’t know where to turn, or what financial support is available to them.

“We can help in a range of ways, including assessing your entitlement to means-tested and non means-tested benefits; applying for benefits and completing application forms; or helping you to apply for a Macmillan Grant or other one-off grant payments.

“Call us today, that’s what we’re here for.”

For advice, contact the Macmillan Benefits Service number on 0300 1233 233 or via email at [email protected]