Get the support you need
We know cancer throws a lot your way, and from the moment you’re told you may be overwhelmed by the amount of thoughts and questions you have about cancer. Questions both big and small, with one leading to another and another. Whatever you need to ask, Macmillan is here to help and will do whatever it takes to support you.
On this page, you will find information about the different expert teams you can speak to and how to get in touch.
The Macmillan Support Line
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you are worried about money, work or treatment, or you just want to speak about whatever matters to you, we’ll listen and support you.
Call us for free* on 0808 239 9397.
You can also write to us or chat with us.
See below for information on areas where we may be able to support you and hours that the relevant teams are available.
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Cost of Living
We know that the rising cost of living means people that many people affected by cancer have had tough choices to make. If you are struggling with living costs, you may be able to get help. This may include help with rising household bills including rent, mortgage payments and council tax. You can also talk to one of our financial guides about any money concerns you may have.
Financial guidance (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm)
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Emotional support and practical informationOur cancer information advisers offer a listening ear and are ready to talk about whatever matters to you. They can also provide expert cancer information to help you find your best way through.
(7 days a week, 8am-8pm) -
Clinical informationOur experienced cancer nurses will talk you through specialist information about your diagnosis and treatment. They can help you understand what to expect from your prognosis and share key information to help you manage symptoms and side effects.
(7 days a week, 8am-8pm) -
Financial support
Cancer can be tough on your finances. Our financial guides offer personalised support and guidance to help you deal with money worries. They can also explain financial products, so you can best manage your money.
If you need information on benefits and financial support, our welfare rights advisers will make sure you’re not missing out on anything you may be entitled to. They can also help you find out if you’re eligible for alternative sources of support or services.
If cancer is affecting your ability to pay the bills, the energy advice team are here for you. They can check if you’re entitled to any additional support through charitable grants – no matter who supplies your gas, electricity and water.
Financial guidance (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm)
Welfare rights (Monday-Friday, 8am - 8pm, Saturday 9am-5pm)
Energy advice team (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm) -
Work guidanceCancer and its treatments may affect your work life. The work support team can help you to understand your rights at work. They can also offer guidance on how to talk to your employer and negotiate adjustments at work. If you need one-off legal advice they can refer you as well as provide information on sick pay and taking time off.
Work support team (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm) -
Coronavirus guidance
We have information about cancer and coronavirus as you might have questions. You might be worried about your cancer treatment, feel anxious about going to work, concerned about paying the bills, or worried about someone you care about who has cancer. You may even be feeling isolated and just want to talk.
If you need to talk to someone, you can call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 239 9397.
Or for information on everything from treatment impact to supporting someone, we have information about cancer and coronavirus.
You may be interested in
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Through Bupa, we are offering counselling sessions for people struggling emotionally because of cancer. Those eligible can receive specialist, remote support.
A safe space where you can share experiences, ask questions or vent your emotions at any time, day or night.
We offer a free telephone befriending service for people living with cancer. We’ll match you up with a volunteer buddy for a weekly phone call.