Financial support for families after a cancer misdiagnosis | Nash & Co Solicitors

Written by Mike Shiers and Rebecca Brisley | Medical Negligence team | 11 February 2026

A cancer misdiagnosis doesn’t just affect the person who received the wrong diagnosis. It often impacts their whole family emotionally, physically and financially. Treatment plans may change, work may be interrupted, and additional care might become necessary. The financial strain can quickly add up, especially when one or more family members need to take time off work to provide support.

In these situations, many families are unaware of the financial help that may be available. From government benefits and charity support to compensation through a medical negligence claim, there are several ways to access help during this difficult time.

What this article will cover

In this article, we’ll look at the main forms of financial support available to patients and families following a cancer misdiagnosis. We’ll explain how compensation can help with treatment and care costs, outline other practical sources of financial assistance, and show how Nash & Co Solicitors can guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.

Why financial support is often needed after a cancer misdiagnosis

When cancer is misdiagnosed, either as a different condition or missed entirely, the impact can be severe. A delay in treatment might lead to more advanced illness, more aggressive therapy and longer recovery times. This can result in:

• Loss of income if the patient or a family member cannot work.

• Increased travel costs for treatment or hospital appointments.

• The need for private treatment, rehabilitation, or specialist equipment.

• Emotional strain that affects family life and wellbeing.

Financial support can relieve some of this pressure, allowing families to focus on recovery rather than worry about everyday costs.

Compensation through a medical negligence claim

One of the main ways families can recover financial losses is through a medical negligence claim. If a healthcare professional’s mistake caused harm by delaying or misdiagnosing cancer, you may be entitled to compensation.

A claim can include:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and the loss of amenity.

• Special damages for the financial impact, such as treatment costs, travel, care, and lost income.

• Compensation aims to restore your financial stability and help fund the care and support needed for recovery. It can also help families plan for future expenses, including rehabilitation or long-term care.

At Nash & Co Solicitors, we help clients understand what they can claim for, gather the necessary evidence, and pursue fair compensation with care and transparency.

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Discover more information about Cancer Misdiagnosis and how we can help here.

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Other sources of financial support

Not all financial help has to come through a legal claim. There are several additional forms of support that can help ease the financial burden after a cancer misdiagnosis.

Government benefits and statutory payments:

Depending on your circumstances, you or a family member may qualify for financial support such as:

• Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you are unable to work due to illness.

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for help with daily living and mobility needs.

• Carer’s Allowance if you spend a significant amount of time looking after someone who needs care.

• Universal Credit if your household income has been affected.

It’s worth seeking advice from a benefits specialist or your local Citizens Advice office to ensure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to.

Charitable and community grants

Many UK cancer charities offer grants to help patients and families with specific costs. For example:

• Macmillan Cancer Support provides grants for travel, heating bills, or home adaptations.

• Maggie’s Centres and Penny Brohn UK can offer financial guidance and emotional support.

Local charities in Devon and Cornwall sometimes provide small grants for families facing financial hardship due to illness. These forms of assistance can make a real difference during difficult times and are often available quickly.

Workplace and pension support

If you or a loved one has had to take time off work, it’s worth checking your employment rights. Some employers offer enhanced sick pay schemes, and you might be entitled to access a workplace pension early if your illness affects your ability to return to work.

Your solicitor can help identify any employment-related entitlements that may apply.

Planning for ongoing and future costs

When a cancer misdiagnosis leads to prolonged treatment or permanent health changes, financial planning becomes even more important. A well-prepared compensation claim should consider not just current expenses but also long-term costs such as:

• Ongoing medical treatment and medication.

• Rehabilitation, counselling, or physiotherapy.

• Specialist care or assistance at home.

• Loss of pension contributions or career progression.

This ensures that the financial impact of the misdiagnosis is fully addressed, helping families move forward with greater security and peace of mind.

How Nash & Co Solicitors can help

At Nash & Co Solicitors, we understand that financial stress can add another layer of difficulty during an already painful time. Our goal is to make the process of seeking help and compensation as clear and supportive as possible.

When you contact us, you’ll speak directly with an experienced team member who will listen carefully to your situation and explain your options in plain English. We’ll help you understand what you can claim for, identify other sources of financial support, and ensure that your claim reflects both immediate and long-term needs. We’ll guide you through every stage of the process, keeping communication clear and honest.

You can contact us by calling 01752 827067 or emailing medneg@nash.co.uk to arrange a free initial consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What financial support is available after a cancer misdiagnosis?

  You may be entitled to compensation through a medical negligence claim, as well as government benefits and charitable grants.

• Can I claim compensation if my diagnosis was delayed?

  Yes. If the delay caused your condition to worsen or led to unnecessary suffering, you may have grounds for a medical negligence claim.

• What costs can compensation cover?

  Compensation can include treatment expenses, rehabilitation, lost income and care costs.

• How long does the process take?

  Most cancer misdiagnosis claims take between 18 months and 3 years, depending on the complexity and whether the healthcare provider admits fault.

• Can I claim for my partner’s lost income if they took time off to care for me?

  Yes. Family care and lost earnings can often be included in your claim.

• Will my NHS treatment be affected if I make a claim?

  No. Making a claim does not affect your entitlement to NHS care or treatment.

• Do I have to go to court?

  Most claims settle before reaching court, but your solicitor will prepare your case thoroughly in case a hearing is required.

• How are legal fees handled?

  At Nash & Co Solicitors, most medical negligence cases are run on a No Win No Fee basis. The success fee and any shortfall are capped by agreement.

• Can Nash & Co help if I live outside Plymouth?

  Yes. We represent clients across Devon, Cornwall and throughout the UK, offering phone or video consultations for convenience.