Welfare benefits advice for people affected by cancer

A cancer diagnosis can impact your finances in many ways.

You might need to stop working or reduce your hours, and face additional costs such as hospital parking or travel.

Depending on your circumstances, you could be eligible for benefits or financial support.

We’re here to help

Our specialist advisors provide free and confidential advice to people affected by cancer including patients, their carers and family members who provide direct support.

They’ll review your situation, identify your entitlements, and help you apply for the support you need. If necessary, they can also refer you to other organisations.

How we can help

Our specialist advisors can:                              

• Review your situation and identify the benefits and support you’re entitled to
• Help you apply for welfare benefits and tax credits
• Assist with accessing charitable grants to ease financial pressure
• Provide advice on managing household and fuel costs
• Offer basic guidance on issues like debt, employment, or housing, and refer you to specialist advisers if needed
• Support applications for transport concessions, such as a disabled parking badge

Who can access this service

This service is for people affected by cancer, including patients, their carers, and family members who provide direct support.

You can access this service if you are a patient with cancer or a family member or carer supporting someone with cancer, and you:

• Live in the London Borough of Hounslow, or
• Are receiving cancer care at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which includes West Middlesex University Hospital and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

How to get advice

Advice is available over the telephone or in person at:

• West Middlesex Hospital
• The Macmillan Centre at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
• Citizens Advice Hounslow offices in Chiswick and Feltham.

In-person appointments are available on set days and must be booked in advance.

How to access the service

You can ask a member of your cancer care team or the Macmillan Information and Support Centre to refer you.

Alternatively, you can get in touch directly by emailing macmillan@hounslowcabs.org.uk or calling 0800 001 6087.

If the lines are busy, please leave your name and contact details. A member of the welfare benefits advice team will return your call within 3 working days.

Inpatient Service

For patients staying in hospital for a long period who prefer an in-person visit but cannot attend our service locations, an adviser can visit the ward. To arrange an appointment, please speak with your cancer care team or the Macmillan Information and Support Centre.