Helping locals with cancer navigate financial and legal challenges 

Being diagnosed with cancer can bring more than just physical and emotional strain – it can also create sudden and unexpected financial and legal burdens. For many people, knowing where to turn for help isn’t always easy.

That’s why Cancer Council NSW offers legal and financial support services to help people navigate these challenges and ensure they can access professional support. Unfortunately, many people face barriers in accessing legal and financial support due to the cost and location of services, especially in regional areas.

To ensure more Northern Rivers locals have access to support, and in response to increasing demand for legal and financial support in the area, Cancer Council NSW recently held a two-day financial and legal support clinic in Lismore.  

Held on 7-8 May at the Lismore Workers Club, the clinic was delivered in partnership with HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, Viridian Financial Group, and Parker & Kissane Solicitors, and funded through a generous grant from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

Practical support when it’s needed most

Throughout the two days, cancer patients and their carers received support from legal and financial professionals, including help preparing key documents such as wills, enduring powers of attorney, and enduring guardian documents.

Attendees also had access to one-on-one budgeting and financial information sessions, plus small group education sessions to help them understand and manage common financial and legal concerns related to cancer.

Jackie Connors from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation says these services can make a huge difference, especially when delivered in person.

She explains, “accessing financial or legal advice can be stressful, which often deters people from seeking the help they need.”

“The clinic was busy with people wanting to learn more about how to best take care of themselves and their loved ones – highlighting just how valuable this clinic is for the Lismore community,” she adds.

Whole-person support from Cancer Council

The clinic also featured the presence of Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 Information and Support line health professionals, who provided emotional support, cancer information, and referrals to additional services.

Sophie Anderson, Manager of Client Experience at Cancer Council NSW, says the clinic was a meaningful way to meet the growing demand for support in the Northern Rivers region.

Sophie says, “we are delighted to have been able to increase access to support services in the Northern Rivers area for people affected by cancer”.

“This initiative has not only provided immediate relief but has also equipped individuals with the knowledge and resources to navigate their challenges with confidence,” she says.

This holistic approach ensures that people aren’t just supported in one area – but across the emotional, practical, and financial aspects of living with cancer.

“We’ve heard people recommending Cancer Council NSW’s support services to their friends and family following the clinic, so it has been a fantastic initiative to raise awareness of Cancer Council and the support available for anyone in the community impacted by cancer,” she adds.

Expanding support across regional NSW

The Lismore clinic is just one part of Cancer Council NSW’s ongoing effort to reach communities where in-person support is especially needed.

Thanks to continued funding from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, a second clinic is already planned for later this year in Coffs Harbour.

Cancer Council NSW remains committed to supporting people through every stage of their cancer experience, no matter where they live.

Our legal and financial support services are available as ongoing services across NSW, or available remotely, and can be accessed by calling 13 11 20.

To find out more, visit www.cancercouncil.com.au

If you need to talk about cancer, call Cancer Council on 13 11 20 

We are committed to continuing to provide this support in regional communities, with another support clinic to be held in Coffs Harbour from 9 – 10 September. To learn more about this clinic, please call 13 11 20.