Stand Up To Cancer Day: Craig’s story

Every year, nearly 393,000 people in Britain hear the devastating words: “You have cancer”.  Over 3 million people in the UK are living with cancer, and that number is expected to climb to 3.5 million by 2025, reaching 4 million by 2030.

Today (13 September) is Stand Up To Cancer Day, when millions of people come together around the world, united by the same mission, to fight cancer. This powerful day of fundraising and awareness brings hope to those affected by this cruel disease, reminding them they are not alone in their struggle.

The hidden costs of cancer

A cancer diagnosis can change a person’s financial situation. For many, living with cancer means working fewer hours, or leaving work, sometimes permanently.  New expenses can mount, such as travel to appointments and hospital parking costs. The weight of these financial pressures can feel overwhelming, adding to the fear and anxiety of an already frightening situation.

Research by Macmillan shows the scale of the financial burden people living with cancer can face. The cancer charity’s Cancer’s Hidden Price Tag report, shows that four in five people (83%) are, on average, £570 a month worse off following a cancer diagnosis.

But whatever your circumstances, it’s important to know there is help available.

On Stand Up To Cancer Day, we want to share one of our customer’s stories, a story of hope amid despair, showing that even in the darkest times, support is there.  

Craig’s story

Craig* was doing his best to manage his debts, working with a debt management plan (DMP), to pay off what he could afford. On 24 February, Craig made us aware that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Since July 2023, Craig’s illness has forced him to stop work. After his sick and holiday pay ran out, his employer ended his contract.

As well as battling cancer, Craig faced the overwhelming burden of financial strain.

How we helped Craig

When Craig reached out to us, we could feel the weight of his struggle. Recognising his inability to work and the toll his illness had taken, we started exploring whether medical debt write-off might be an option for him.

On 14 May 2024, we approached the ten lenders Craig owed money. Medical write-offs are never guaranteed as each lender has the right to refuse. But in this case, all ten lenders agreed without hesitation to write off Craig’s debt, which came to more than £25,000 in total.

By 2 August, Craig’s case was complete. At a time when everything felt hopeless, this small victory meant at least one considerable source of stress was removed, leaving Craig and his loved ones to focus their energy on his treatment and care.

What is medical write-off?

Medical write-off is a request to lenders to clear the debts of someone facing severe health challenges. There’s no certainty that lenders will agree as it’s a discretionary process. To be considered, you must provide medical evidence, that:

• is dated in the last six months
• is from a doctor or medical professional (such as a nurse or psychiatrist)
• confirms your diagnosis
• explains how the condition affects you
• is ideally on letter-headed paper and signed by a medical professional

Want to find out how we can help you?

To get help with your debts, you can either complete our online advice journey at a time and place to suit you. Or you can ring us on 0161 518 8285. We’re here Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and over the weekend between 10am and 4pm.

*Some personal details have been changed to protect our customer’s privacy