Leukaemia Care and Leukaemia UK relaunch financial support service in response to the ongoing cost of living

In 2022, Leukaemia Care provided over £168,000 of financial support to those affected by leukaemia, MDS, or MPN. These grants have provided financial support for those who are struggling with increased bills, the cost of hospital travel and food costs. Leukaemia UK has previously committed a £20,000 grant towards this fund and has since donated an additional £27,000. As a result, we have been able to offer 464 grants to those affected by leukaemia, MDS or an MPN in 2022 alone.

But, demand for financial grants continues to amplify with the UK’s continued cost of living crisis. Last year we saw a 400% increase in the number of applications to our fund. Those struggling financially due to their leukaemia diagnosis have been facing additional costs of living pressures. 43% of patients report a financial impact, either due to an increase in costs or a reduction in income, or indeed both. This increased to 55% for acute leukaemia patients.

To help address this need, Leukaemia Care and Leukaemia UK have once again come together to relaunch the Cost of Living Fund.

Zack Pemberton-Whiteley, CEO of Leukaemia Care said: “Being diagnosed with leukaemia has a significant financial impact, on top of the emotional and physical challenges. From the costs of travelling to hospital appointments, increased heating bills to cope with the side effects of treatment, or lost wages from time off work, the financial implications are wide-ranging. The Cost of Living Crisis has increased this pressure further. Leukaemia Care and Leukaemia UK are pleased to be able to launch the Cost of Living with Leukaemia Fund together to provide much-needed financial support to people affected by leukaemia and other forms of blood cancer.”

Fiona Hazell, Chief Executive of Leukaemia UK, said: “The relaunch of the Cost of Living with Leukaemia Fund will help to improve the lives of more people across the UK living with leukaemia. The emotional and physical challenges of leukaemia are profound, and the diagnosis often brings additional financial pressures during what is already one of the most difficult times of a person’s life. The Cost of Living with Leukaemia Fund will make a tangible difference to their lives, and we are very grateful to our supporters for making this relaunch possible.”

If you are in need of support, you can apply for the Cost of Living Fund here.