According to Macmillan Cancer Support, cancer care is about
£570 per month. UK families would be left with £365 monthly including standard
costs for food, electricity, gas and utilities.
Unemployment and a large drop of income progress could make
additional costs for cancer harder to absorb.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support's Chief Executive
Lynda Thomas:
"At a time when thousands of families are struggling to
make ends meet, a cancer diagnosis can be the straw that breaks the camel’s
back, sending them into financial freefall.
"We’re talking about families whose world has already
been turned upside down and now they’re having to stop going out or spending
money on small treats such as toys for their children or magazines. And even
then they’re still at risk of getting into debt. It’s got to be a very
worrying, isolating place to be.
“When you’re diagnosed with cancer, the last thing you need
to be worrying about is how to pay the bills and keep a roof over your head.
But the one thing I would say is that you don’t have to do this alone – there
is help out there. At Macmillan we offer financial information and support to
help people get back on their feet.
"Last year we helped 90,000 people affected by cancer
unlock £267million in benefits alone.”
Macmillan warned families may turn to debts and sell
properties to cover the shortfall. With the possible real estate bubble
pressing against UK cities, it may not be enough to cover the cancer treatment
depending on length.
Statutory Sick Pay, a government allowance that pays just
£88.45 weekly, wouldn't be enough to cover the costs as it could only last for
about 28 weeks.
