How does cancer become a poverty risk? Anne Weininger, head of NCT Social Services, discussed this question on the ZDF programme WISO.

Existential fears are a major burden in the event of a serious illness. A particular challenge is the long duration of the illness, during which, depending on the personal income situation, the available financial resources no longer cover living expenses. In particular, the self-employed, single parents and young people with the disease are at risk.

The need for advice has increased, especially when it comes to financial issues. Continued pay, sick pay, citizen's income, reduced earning capacity pension: For cancer patients, it is often difficult to find out what options are available and which solution is best for their situation. The staff at the NCT Heidelberg Social Service are on hand to provide advice and support in dealing with bureaucratic hurdles.

The programme from 13 January 2024 is available here, with the feature starting at around the 25-minute mark.

Information about the NCT Heidelberg Social Service is available here.