Finances can be an additional source of concern with the loss of income due to the inability to work and the added expenditure that can arise from being unwell and in hospital. You may be eligible for non-means tested benefits.  There are a number of useful organisations that can help with these and other finance related issues.

For those with a diagnosis of cancer the Citizens Advice Bristol Macmillan Team provides information on benefits entitlement and other support either in person or by phone. For further information about the Bristol office and links to the services nearby click here.

Macmillan Cancer Support  provides practical, medical, emotional and financial support for those affected by cancer. Contact the free helpline: 0808 808 0000. To find out more view their website.

For those with a diagnosis other than cancer, Citizens Advice offers financial support. View the website here.

AGE UK provides information for older people on topics such as benefits, community care, and housing. For information call 0800 678 1602 or visit the website.

The NHS website also has information on coping financially here. For guidance and claims forms for government benefits visit the DWP website.

A carer is someone who regularly provides a lot of help for, or looks after a partner, relative or friend to support them in returning to and remaining at home. We appreciate that caring for someone with palliative or end of life needs can be difficult.  You can find out more about the Carers Liaison Service at UH Bristol here.

Download the Carers Liaison Service leaflet

Carers Support Centre Bristol and South Gloucestershire

Carers Line: 0117 965 2200 or www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk

Carers UK

Freephone: 0808 808 7777 or www.carersuk.org

Looking after your health and wellbeing is important when you are living with a life limiting condition. Information on supporting your psychological and physical health can be found here. 

For those looking after someone with a life limiting condition, it is important to also look after yourself. We understand that this can be difficult but taking time to consider your own health and wellbeing will benefit you and the person you are caring for. 

More support information can be found on the Marie Curie website. Find general advice on health and wellbeing on the NHS Live Well pages here.

UH Bristol has a team of hospital chaplains to help assist in the spiritual, religious and pastoral care of patients, relatives and staff within the hospitals. They offer a point of contact for all spiritual and religious needs providing pastoral support for patients approaching the end of life and those who care for them. They are available to listen, talk or advise on the human emotions and spiritual, ethical or existential aspects often associated with dying and death. They also provide religious rites such as prayer for the dying or deceased. Chaplains can contact community representatives from a number of faith or belief traditions to request additional support when requested to do so.

Hospital chaplains are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday to visit patients or their families on the ward. A duty chaplain is available 24/7 to provide emergency care and can be contacted by staff via the hospital switchboard.

For more information on the team and other resources please click  here.