Do you look after someone with cancer?

5 minute read time.

You may say ‘I'm just being their husband, partner, daughter, friend ...' but if you're looking after someone with cancer – there is support available for you.

If you look after someone with cancer you may not think of yourself as a carer. Yet the support you provide is vital: from helping with shopping, dressing, or taking them to the hospital, to being there when they need to talk. We know that without the right support, providing this care can have a big impact on you – physically, emotionally and financially, and can completely take over your life.

Macmillan's video about those who look after someone with cancer

We know that caring can be full of strong and sometimes difficult emotions, and you might be having good days and bad days.  This blog will clarify where you can get the support you may need. It also tells you how you can take part in the Carers Week Quest and join forces with others to campaign for more support for those looking after someone with cancer.

Support if you're looking after someone with cancer

Talking about your feelings and experiences – the good, the bad and the ugly – can be healthy. Our online community is a fantastic place to do this. You can get support from people who know what you’re going through, which can be invaluable at a time like this. You can share your experiences, tips, or just get things off your chest. There’s a group specifically for carers. On our website you can also find support groups for carers that are local to you.

Giving yourself a break is also important, whether it’s to enjoy a cup of tea, go for a walk to clear your head, or see a friend you may not have seen for a while. Having some time for yourself can help you to relax and feel able to cope better, which can also help the person you’re caring for. There are ways to have breaks while you’re caring. Perhaps you can arrange for someone to come in and sit with the person you care for, just for a few hours. If there isn’t a relative or friend who can do this, you may be able to get respite care or help from organisations.

If you are a carer for a person with cancer, you are entitled to an assessment of your needs, called a Carer’s assessment. This may lead to you getting practical support such as equipment to help with caring tasks, help from a paid carer or respite care. You can also read about carers rights, and make sure you’re getting the help you’re entitled to, from your employer and your local council.

If cancer has brought extra costs and you’re worried about money – there is support available. There are financial benefits and credits that you can get as a carer. You might also want to check whether the person you’re looking after is entitled to any financial help – there are lots of benefits out there.

Remember, you’re not alone. From in-depth information to financial guidance and support with work issues, we provide a range of services to help you look after yourself when you’re looking after someone with cancer. If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the support we offer, visit macmillan.org.uk/carers or call us on 0808 808 00 00 (Mon–Fri, 9am–8pm). You can also come in to one of our information and support centres to speak to someone face-to-face. We’re here for you.

Family and Friends Facebook chat

On Wednesday 16 April from 12.00pm, join us on Facebook to chat to our nurse Bill and our Carers Support Programme Manager Charlotte.

Photo of nurse Bill  Photo of Carers Support Programme Manager Charlotte

Get involved in Carers Week (9–15 June)

Carers Week logo

From friendly, expert information and support events to social activities such as quiz nights and picnics, there’s lots going on during Carers Week – and you can get involved in the way that best suits you.

If you’d like to hold your own event, that would be fantastic.

Find out more at carersweek.org and join the Carers Week Quest.

Macmillan can support you in holding an event by providing you with free awareness resources.

Stand up for carers

According to research by Macmillan, there are 1.1 million people caring for someone with cancer in the UK. Only 5% of them (five in a hundred) have had a Carer's assessment. As a result, carers are not getting the support they need. In England, nearly half (46%) of carers suffer with mental health problems such as stress, anxiety and depression. And one in eight (13%) say that caring has caused them physical health issues too. Without support, these carers are facing a crisis. This is why Macmillan has been fighting for more support for carers. Find out more about our Do you care? campaign.


We hope this blog has helped you find the support you need. If you need any further help, please get in touch.

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Keep in touch Follow Macmillan’s cancer information team on Twitter @mac_cancerinfo

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