To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether his Department has any financial support available for those diagnosed with cancer and struggling with the cost of living.

A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment can have a substantial impact on an individual's financial circumstances, employment status and ability to participate in the workforce.

Research undertaken by charities, including Macmillan Cancer Support, and more recently by Queen's University Belfast, has found evidence that cancer patients and survivors can experience financial hardship, including loss of income, welfare and benefits issues, and wider impacts on household finances.

All patients waiting for cancer treatment in Northern Ireland have access to Macmillan Cancer Support Information and Support Services, which provide advice and support, as well as guidance on financial concerns, welfare benefits and other practical support available to patients and their families.

Further information on Macmillan benefits services, which provides advice, support and assistance for the financial aspects of a cancer diagnosis, is available to review on the Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICAN) main website: https://nican.hscni.net/info-for-patients-public/local-macmillan-cancer-information-and-support-services/