21% of people with cancer in London have no savings to cushion the financial impact of the disease, according to new research by Macmillan Cancer Support out today.

The charity’s report, No Small Change, shows money worries can affect people with cancer when they least expect it.

It warns that a lack of financial safety net could leave an estimated 38,000 people with cancer in London vulnerable to hardship due to the unexpected cost of the disease.

Previous research by the charity has shown that, for the majority of people, cancer costs an average of £570 a month in lost income or increased expenditure.

Ed Tallis, Head of Services for Macmillan Cancer Support in London said: “It is worrying that so many Londoners don’t have savings and could therefore be financially vulnerable if they were to get cancer.

“It’s difficult to save at the best of times and when you’re going through cancer the last thing you want to worry about is if you can put food on the table or keep a roof over your head.

“It’s important that people know, if they were to get cancer, Macmillan is here to help with money worries.”

In London, Macmillan provides a range of support for people financially affected by cancer such as Macmillan welfare benefits advisors, Macmillan Citizen Advice services and Macmillan Information and Support Centres.

The charity also provides a free telephone support line where people affected by cancer and money worries can access benefits advice, energy advice, financial guidance and means-tested grants.

Londoner and mum of three, Janette Vincent, 54, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007.

She said: “When I received my cancer diagnosis, one of the biggest worries was about money and the financial hardship that threatened me and my children.

“But my Macmillan Case Worker Rodrigo helped alleviate the burden of those worries.

“At a time of struggle, he advised me on the financial assistance I could access as a cancer patient and helped me fill out all the necessary forms.

“I could face what I was going through, as I had someone to share my troubles with, other than family.”

Visit macmillan.org.uk/money worries or call 0808 808 00 00.