Macmillan welcomes CAB bereavement benefit court victory

Macmillan Cancer Support has welcomed Tuesday's High Court ruling that denying a benefit aimed at easing financial pressure on families after a death is discrimination.

When Siobhan McLaughlin’s partner died from cancer, she contacted her local Citizens Advice Bureau in Antrim through their partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, which provides benefits advice to people affected by cancer and their families.

Heather Monterverde, Head of Macmillan Services in Northern Ireland said: “It’s unfair that bereaved partners, like Siobhan, should see their family unit disadvantaged by not having the same access to bereavement benefits at a time of loss.

“Our Macmillan CAB advisers support many families affected by cancer by maximising income for them at a time of significant need. They give free, confidential advice on welfare entitlements, employment law, housing law and discrimination.

“This case shows how important it is that people affected by cancer get the advice, support and representation they need.”