More than a third of UK population will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime. Cancer can occur in over 200 different forms and can be a life-changing illness which can bring many physical, emotional and financial challenges to an individual and their loved ones.

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) knows how critical support can be to employees and their families in the electrical sector who have been affected by cancer and this is why EIC launched the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which is funded by powerLottery.

Through the Employee Assistance Programme, EIC is able to offer crucial support to those who are struggling to cope with the added challenges that come with cancer by providing services including financial grants and assistance, counselling, complex case management and legal advice.

Recently through EAP, the Charity was able to offer financial support to 56-year-old James from Scotland, who is suffering from a form of throat cancer. James, who lives with his 65-year-old wife, was referred to EIC by Macmillan Cancer Support after struggling financially during his radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments.

James went to see his GP after experiencing a prolonged sore throat. His GP simply prescribed him with antibiotics and assured him that it was nothing to worry about. Despite this, after seeing his dentist for a routine check-up the very next day, James was referred to the hospital where he was diagnosed with a form of throat cancer which is commonly known as oropharyngeal cancer.

Since the distressing diagnosis, James has undergone surgery and had six weeks of radiotherapy and two courses of chemotherapy. Although he is now feeling much better, it is likely that James will need to be fitted with a PEG feeding tube in his stomach.

Additionally, on top of the cancer worries, James and his wife are struggling financially, and although a couple are receiving Universal Credit and a small occupational pension, this is not enough to cover the daily costs including household bills and medical appointments. To lift the financial strain from the couple’s shoulders during this difficult time, EIC offered a £600 grant to help them over the next three months, by when it is hoped that James will be free from cancer and will be able to lead as normal life as possible.

Coping with cancer and living a normal life can be challenging in many ways, but support from the industry can make a huge difference in someone’s life. By becoming a member of the Charity’s Employee Assistance Programme or taking part in powerLottery today, you can help EIC give hope and provide much-needed support to those who are experiencing financial and emotional difficulties as they embark on their road to recovery.

For further information or to show your support for those who are struggling following their cancer diagnosis, sign up to EIC’s Employee Assistance Programme today by contacting Jess Vailima: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

There are many people who need just a little life support. If you would like to learn more about partnering with EFP, why not contact the Charity today: Jess Vailima: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.