Money issues

If you've had a heart attack or heart surgery, or you're living with a heart condition, you may find it's affecting you financially.

When you are already coping with your recovery, you won't want the added stress of money worries.   

Where do I start?

Starting to look at your finances can feel overwhelming, particularly when you already have your heart condition and overall health to think about.

To help you make a start, the Money Advice Service, an independent advice organisation who are there to help everyone understand and manage their money better, offer a free online money advisor health check.  

They will give you a personalised action plan to help you sort out your money priorities now, and to plan for the future. Answer some straightforward questions (it takes around 5 minutes to complete) and they will give you a personalised action plan which should help you work out what to do first.

You can also call their confidential helpline on 0300 500 5000 - open from 8am-8pm Monday- Friday (calls cost no more than calls to 01 or 02 numbers and are included in any inclusive mobile and landline minute bundles).

And with Christmas in mind, they now have some handy festive tips to help you have a good time without breaking the bank. So if you don’t want a money headache in the New Year but still want to have a great Christmas, check out their festive tips. 

Am I entitled to benefits or assistance?

If your heart condition has affected your ability to work, to care for yourself, or your mobility, you may be entitled to financial support and benefits.

Directgov can give you information on benefits and financial support, including an online benefits advisor.  

The Benefits Enquiry Line on 0800 882 200 can give you confidential advice about any benefits you may be entitled to, and how to claim them. It's run by the Department for Work and Pensions

Turn2us is a charity helping people access the money available to them through benefits, grants and other financial help. Find appropriate sources of financial support, quickly and easily, based on your particular needs and circumstances on their website. They also offer a free and confidential Helpline - call 0808 802 2000 between 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

I'm worried about money, where can I go for help?

If you are worried about money or debt, it is really important to speak to someone
who can provide you with support and advice as soon as possible.

The Citizens Advice Bureau and National Debtline both provide free, confidential, and independent advice on debt and money issues.

Am I entitled to free prescriptions?

To find out whether you are exempt from paying some or any prescription charges, or for help with other health costs such as dental treatment or eyecare, contact the NHS Patient Services Helpline on 0845 850 1166 (interpretation services are available) or visit NHS Choices.

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than fourteen items in twelve months, you may find it cheaper to buy a Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPC). 

All prescriptions are currently free in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. We are a member of the Asthma UK led Prescription Charges Coalition, which is calling on the Government to implement its promise to abolish prescription charges for everyone with long-term conditions as soon as possible.

We are campaigning hard to ensure that those at risk or living with heart disease will soon be free of the financial burden of prescription charges. If you would like to share your experience of how prescription charges are affecting you, please email us or call 020 7554 0158.