Your three most common questions about the financial pressures of prostate cancer, answered

I’ve had to stop work because of my prostate cancer. Is there any financial support available to me?

If you’re struggling with the financial costs of prostate cancer, or your income has changed since you were diagnosed, you may be able to get some help.

First of all, are you entitled to sick pay? Find out from your employer if statutory sick pay and occupational or company sick pay are relevant to you. Check your employment contract.

Depending on your situation, you may also be entitled to benefits. This also applies if you’re self-employed – especially if you’ve had to take time off. The benefits you’re entitled to will vary depending on whether you are working, how old you are and other factors. You may be able to get help to fill in claim forms, which can often seem like a daunting task.

Financial support or grants from other charities or organisations may also be available.

For more information visit:

• GOV.UK, or nidirect.gov.uk if you’re in Northern Ireland, for the most up-to-date information about benefits and employment services.
• Your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau for free, independent, confidential, and impartial advice.
• Macmillan Cancer Support for excellent information and advice on all the basics, including money, benefits and other types of financial support.
• The Macmillan Work Support Service to speak to one of their cancer support specialists for information about your situation.
• Maggie’s for free support and advice around money and benefits.
• Turn2us allows anyone to search for financial grants they may be entitled to.
• Your local Social Security office

Can I get any help with transport and parking?

Yes, you might be able to. If you use public transport, you might get discounts and free travel.

The Motability Scheme can help you lease or buy a car if you get certain benefits. Even if you don't drive yourself, you can apply for a car as a passenger and propose up to two other people as your drivers. You could also be eligible to get help to adapt a car you already have to make it more suitable for you.

And if you’re having trouble walking, the Blue Badge Scheme helps people park closer to their destination.

For more information visit:

• Motability Scheme for help to lease or buy a car.
• Blue Badge to apply for a badge.
• Your local council for questions about the Blue Badge Scheme.

I’m planning a holiday. Will my travel insurance be more expensive?

The cost of travel insurance and the kind of coverage you get can vary so we suggest you shop around to get the best deal. The amount you pay for travel insurance (the premium) and to make a claim (the excess) is likely to be higher than if you had not been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

In general, prices go down the longer your cancer has been under control. This means that if you have recently been diagnosed, are currently having treatment, or if you have been treated recently, you may pay more. Travel insurance could be expensive if you have advanced or recurrent cancer.

It might cost less if you choose a policy that doesn't cover treatment related to your cancer. You might want to do this if you feel your cancer is unlikely to cause any problems while you are away – but this is a risk and could cost a lot of money if you do need treatment for any problems related to your cancer while you’re away. You can talk to your medical team about this if you have any concerns.

For more information visit:

• Our factsheet on travel and prostate cancer for tips on preparing for your trip, arranging travel insurance and looking after yourself while you’re away.

Our Specialist Nurses are here to help. You can call the team on 0800 074 8383, Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm and Wednesdays 10am – 5pm. You can also get in touch via live chat or email.

Contact our Specialist Nurses