Cancer patients start to receive £100 winter fuel payment

Eligible cancer patients will receive their £100 winter fuel payment by the end of February, Health Minister Edwin Poots has announced.
~ Monday, 23 January 2012

The Minister said: “The financial burden, along with the physical affects of cancer and cancer treatments means that many people suffering with cancer find it increasingly difficult to pay their bills. This £100 payment will greatly benefit those being treated for cancer and will help to make the colder months more comfortable.

“Starting from this week, GPs will post a form out to those eligible for the £100 payment. It will be a straightforward form which patients will simply need to sign and return to the address stated. They will then receive a cheque in the post.”

Eligible patients are:

• People who have received surgery for cancer within the qualifying period 13 June 2011 to 18 December 2011;
• People who have received radiotherapy, chemotherapy or palliative care for cancer within the qualifying period13 June 2011 to 18 December 2011; or
• People for whom a decision is made, during the qualifying week of 12 to 18 December 2011, to provide treatment for cancer in the form of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or palliative care.

The Minister continued: “As the scheme has only just been announced, you need to give GPs some time to check their registers to identify patients that are eligible. If you have not received a letter from your GP by early February 2012, you should telephone the free helpline number on 028 9032 1313. Depending on the nature of the enquiry, it may be dealt with by the Business Services Organisation, referred to a HSC Trust if you have received recent treatment there, or your GP Practice to check if a letter has been issued.”

Please note, the helpline will not be operational until 6 February 2012, until all GP letters have been issued.

Notes to editors:

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