Working in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support
Disability Solutions Macmillan Welfare Benefits Service

You shouldn't have to worry about money while you're dealing with cancer.

We provide free, confidential and impartial welfare benefits advice to people living with cancer, and to their families and carers — so you can focus on your health, not your finances.

The financial impact of cancer

A diagnosis changes more than your health.

Alongside the emotional and physical strain, many people experience unexpected financial pressure — often just when support is needed most. Income can fall if you reduce your hours or stop working, while everyday costs quietly climb.

Many people affected by cancer find themselves facing additional expenses, including:

Specialist or higher-cost foods Increased childcare needs
Higher heating or energy bills Regular travel to appointments or treatment
Additional care or support services

These challenges can feel daunting — but you are not alone. Our team is here to help you understand what support is available, and guide you through every step.

What the service offers

Practical, hands-on support — not just information.

01

Advice on the benefits you and your family may be entitled to, whether you're working or unable to work.

02

Guidance on how to claim, with hands-on help completing forms if you need it.

03

Signposting and referrals to other specialist support services, where appropriate, alongside your benefits claim.

04

Support with reconsiderations and appeals if a benefit decision doesn't go the way you expected.

How to access the service

A new, simpler referral route from 1 June 2026.

Welfare benefits advice and support for people affected by cancer is now delivered differently across the region. The service has moved to a centralised triage model — giving every referral a single, consistent entry point.

Service update · from 1 June 2026

How a referral now reaches you

A dedicated triage team at Coventry CAB carries out an initial assessment of every referral, then either advises you directly or connects you with a specialist caseworker in the regional partnership — such as the Disability Solutions Macmillan Welfare Benefits Team.

Step 1
Referral submitted via web form or email
Step 2
Central triage team at Coventry CAB assesses the referral
Outcome A
Immediate advice and guidance given
Outcome B
Referred to a specialist caseworker in the partnership
Referral forms for professionals
Open professionals referral form →
Password required: 2026
Self-referral form
Open self-referral form →
No password needed
Prefer email? Central triage: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Why the change was made

  • Improves access with a single, clear referral route
  • Ensures consistency in how clients are assessed and supported
  • Prioritises those most in need through structured triage
  • Makes the best use of specialist expertise across the partnership
  • Creates an equitable, sustainable model that puts clients first

What this means for you

Referrals for people affected by cancer should no longer be sent directly to the Disability Solutions Macmillan Welfare Benefits Team. All referrals now go to central triage first, using the new forms or email address above.

Our ongoing commitment

We remain committed to ensuring that people affected by cancer continue to receive timely, high-quality support — and we thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Disability Solutions Macmillan Welfare Benefits Service · delivered in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support