MACMILLAN Cancer Support awarded grants of around £31,600 to people with cancer in The Scottish Borders last year.

The donations were given to patients experiencing financial hardship during their cancer treatment, with 160 individuals benefitting.

Of the funds allocated to the Borders, £14,210 was used for heating costs with a further £6,870 provided to help supply clothing.

Approximately £6,800 was given to people with cancer who were struggling to cover the cost of travelling to and from their appointments with costs that could not be reclaimed through their hospital.

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, financial difficulties are a frequent consequence of a cancer diagnosis with patients’ income going down while their expenses, for things such as heating and travelling to hospital for treatment, go up.

Four out of five people living with cancer experience a financial impact, with the average cost in Scotland standing at £420 per month.

Janice Preston, Head of Services for Macmillan Cancer Support in Scotland, said: “Half of us will get cancer at some point in our lives, so I’m pleased Macmillan awarded around £31,600 in grants last year to ease their money worries of people with cancer in the Scottish Borders.

“Cancer can affect so many parts of your life and our Macmillan grants, funded by our supporters, help to make money one less worry.

“Grants are just one-way Macmillan is there for people and I’d urge anyone with cancer to get in touch to find out how we can support you.”