MACMILLAN Cancer Support and Wiltshire Citizens Advice are celebrating having raised £1,477,388 in benefits and additional income for people affected by cancer, in the three years of their partnership.

The Wiltshire Macmillan Citizens Advice Service was set up in January 2009 and within the first three years the Macmillan advisers have been in contact with 633 clients who have been affected by a cancer diagnosis.

The service has proven to be invaluable to patients at a time when they are struggling with problems such as increased fuel bills often made more difficult because of a loss of income due to treatment.

The aim of the service is to provide advice and assistance to people affected by cancer, including families and carers on issues such as welfare benefits and entitlements, employment, debts and hospital costs.

Alyson Taylor, a Macmillan benefits adviser at the Citizens Advice Bureau in Salisbury said: “The service has been a real success. The majority of people we see are so worried about their finances it is seriously affecting their quality of life which can have a negative effect on the success of their treatment.

“By giving them advice and, where appropriate, helping them obtain benefits they are entitled to we can really improve their lives and remove a big worry from them and their families.”

In 2011 the service raised £568,598 for 268 clients. This includes benefits payments and also one off grants which are lifelines for patients not eligible for benefits but who need financial support.

If you are struggling to cope with the practical impact of cancer you can access the service by calling 01722 421277 to arrange an appointment or for advice over the phone.

You can also contact the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00 for practical and emotional support or visit macmillan.org.uk/financialsupport.