Social Security Agency hit out at cancer benefits criticism

The Chief Executive of the Social Security Agency (SSA), Gerry Keenan, today highlighted work that his agency has been carrying out to assist people suffering from cancer to access their benefits.

He was responding to a report from Macmillan Cancer Relief that stated up to three-quarters of cancer patients suffer from financial hardship and called on the Government to make access to benefits easier.

Mr Keenan said that the SSA was committed to improving services provided to all its customers, including cancer sufferers saying his Agency had worked in close partnership with Macmillan Cancer Relief in Northern Ireland for the past two years.

"The Social Security Agency acknowledges publication of Macmillan Cancer Relief’s survey and the launch of their ‘Better Care’ campaign,” Mr Keenan said. “I am, however, disappointed that today’s media reports, and Macmillan themselves, have not acknowledged the success of our partnership and progress made towards improving public awareness of benefits which people affected by cancer may be entitled to."

Mr Keenan said a member of staff, seconded from the SSA to Macmillan, took forward a project, which has resulted in improved information on benefits for patients and their carers, easier access to experienced Benefits Advisers and an increase in expertise for SSA staff in dealing with clients who have cancer.

Training in cancer awareness and treatment for SSA staff has already started, with plans currently in development to train all 120 decision makers in Disability Living Allowance.

A Benefits Adviser pilot scheme has also been put in place in Antrim and Banbridge Social Security Offices, to provide information, advice and support to people affected by cancer and to all people with an illness or disability and their carers.

(MB/SP)