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More support needed for cancer patients
A leading cancer charity says it needs more support to help patients pay their energy bills.
Macmillan Cancer Support say the amount they've given to patients in Bedfordshire has risen by 12% in the last year, to just over £12,000.
A national Macmillan survey found that 20% of cancer patients are in fuel poverty - double the official national UK figures for the general public. After diagnosis, 73% of those undergoing cancer treatment needed to use their heating more, yet under 60's do not qualify for any help to pay for it.
Stephen Richards, Director for Anglia and South East at Macmillan Cancer Support: "People undergoing cancer treatment spend more time at home as they're often too ill to work. The effects of treatment can make them feel the cold more, and then they need the heating on higher and for longer which leads to increased fuel bills - all at a time when their household income plummets.
"Struggling with fuel bills is a situation that can very quickly spiral out of control for cancer patients and it is simply not fair. They need help from the Government and they need it now."
Anyone struggling with their fuel bills can get hold of a free fuel poverty fact sheet by calling 0808 808 00 00 or by visiting http://www.macmillan.org.uk/fuelpoverty
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