Cancer charities can be a compass when you are lost; thankfully, we have a lot of great ones in the UK. There are the big national charities but also lots of small cancer charities that operate at a local level, so it’s worth seeing what is in your area. A lot of them specialise in specific cancers.
If you have any problems as a result of your cancer and treatment, these charities will have the tools and can give you advice, which means you can make informed decisions quickly.
1. Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan Cancer Support is one of the largest cancer charities in the UK, providing practical, emotional, and financial support to cancer patients and their families. Services offered include information helplines, financial advice, support groups, welfare grants, expert medical guidance, and more.
2. Anthony Nolan
The Anthony Nolan Trust saves and improves people’s lives with blood cancer. They do this through funding research into blood cancers to enhance patient outcomes. They promote and keep a register of potential stem cell donors to find blood cancer patients who are a stem cell match.
Their team supports people by giving the best post-transplant care. Our Clinical Nurse Specialists ensure patients get the financial support they need with our patient grants.
3. Marie Curie
Marie Curie offers specialist care for people with terminal cancer and other terminal illnesses. Their nurses provide practical and emotional support to patients in their homes or within their hospices, ensuring individuals receive the care they need during challenging times. Marie Curie also operates a dedicated information and support line for cancer patients, their families, and healthcare professionals.
4. Maggie’s Centres
Maggie’s Centres provide a warm and inviting environment at numerous locations across the UK, where individuals affected by cancer can access practical, emotional, and social support. Their professional staff, including therapists, counsellors, nutritionists, and benefits advisors, offer a range of services, from one-on-one sessions to group activities, all designed to alleviate the impacts of cancer on daily life.
5. Teenage Cancer Trust
Recognising that cancer is often particularly challenging for young people, the Teenage Cancer Trust focuses on supporting teenagers and young adults aged 13-24 throughout their cancer journey. They provide specialised nursing care, age-appropriate facilities within hospitals, emotional support, and engaging activities, ensuring that young cancer patients receive the unique care and support they require.
6. Breast Cancer Now
Breast Cancer Now is dedicated to supporting those affected by breast cancer through research, support services, and campaigning for better care. Their online community offers a safe space for individuals to share experiences and find support, while their helpline provides expert assistance. Additionally, this charity conducts vital research into preventing and treating breast cancer.
7. Prostate Cancer UK
Prostate Cancer UK aims to improve the lives of those affected by prostate cancer, from funding research to offering support and resources. Their innovative approach focuses on providing information, support groups, and online tools to help men make informed decisions about their health and navigate their prostate cancer journey.
8. Bowel Cancer UK
Bowel Cancer UK is committed to fighting bowel cancer and raising awareness of its prevention and early detection. The charity offers practical advice, support services, and campaigns to inform the public about symptoms, screening, and necessary lifestyle changes. Their helpline provides invaluable support to those affected by bowel cancer and their loved ones.
9. Clic Sargent
Clic Sargent (Young Lives vs Cancer) is the UK’s leading children’s cancer charity, providing support to children and young people with cancer and their families. The organisation offers financial assistance, accommodation near treatment centres, emotional support, play specialists, and much more to ensure children with cancer can access necessary care and support throughout their journey.
10. Brain Tumour Charity
The Brain Tumour Charity aims to improve the understanding, treatment, and support available to those affected by brain tumours. They offer a wide range of resources, including a helpline, support groups, online forums, and information about treatment options, ensuring individuals and their families can access the support they need.
Local Cancer Charities
To find cancer charities local to you, you can use the search on the Cancer Care Map website.