Foster Supports Better Deal for Cancer Patients

6.57.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 9th Nov 2004

Bath's MP, Don Foster, recently renewed his support for Macmillan Cancer Relief at the launch of the 'Better Deal' campaign, which aims to stop cancer spreading to people's finances.

Macmillan launched the campaign because cancer patients have told them that they suffer financial hardship as a result of having cancer. Many cancer patients claim that money worries are second only to pain as a cause of stress.² More than three quarters of people surveyed by the leading cancer care charity said that they ran up extra bills for things like travel for treatment, hospital car parking, higher heating bills and new clothes because of weight change.

Commenting, Don said:

"I am delighted to give Macmillan Cancer Relief's 'Better Deal' campaign my full support.

"It is vital that we address this issue urgently to ensure that cancer patients have access to the information and financial support that they are entitled to.

"A cancer diagnosis can be devastating enough, without the added worry of financial hardship. It is imperative that we work together to get a better deal for people dealing with cancer and stop cancer spreading to people's finances".

At a Parliamentary reception, MPs from all parties heard Peter Cardy, Chief Executive, Macmillan Cancer Relief, ask for their help in persuading the Government to ensure every cancer patient is offered specialist benefits advice at diagnosis. Macmillan also want the law to be changed to make it easier for cancer patients to claim Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.

Peter Cardy, Chief Executive, Macmillan Cancer Relief, added:

"Macmillan is delighted to have Don's support for its 'Better Deal' campaign to stop cancer spreading to people's finances. It is totally unacceptable that cancer patients should suffer the huge problem of debt, poverty or financial hardship at a time when they are most vulnerable -- especially when help is available if only they knew about it".