AMP is marking 10 years of its advisers helping cancer patients and their families with pro bono financial advice through the AMP Foundation’s partnership with the Cancer Council.

Since 2010, advisers in the AMP network have supported more than 6,500 people affected by cancer - patients and their families - to address their financial challenges through Cancer Council’s Pro Bono Program.

During this time, the AMP Foundation has contributed more than $1 million towards the referral service that matches pro bono clients with an adviser in their area.

Head of the AMP Foundation Helen Liondos said the pro bono advice service provided invaluable help to people often faced with a sudden loss of income, unexpected bills and having to deal with calls and paperwork, all while undergoing cancer treatment.

“Advisers in the pro bono program are taking a great deal of pressure off families at this stressful time,” Ms Liondos said.

About 340 practices in the AMP network across Australia are currently enlisted in the program.

Adviser Hamish Landreth of Prosperity Advisers in Brisbane said seeing how clients faced their challenges had been inspiring.

”The way that they handle their diagnosis while also trying to secure their family’s financial future is pretty inspiring,”  Mr Landreth said.

“I find it really rewarding to work with people in this situation and help them in even a small way”

Bill Rainger of Wealthpartners Financial Solutions in Sydney said one of his most rewarding cases was helping a man secure funds which were partly used for a final family road trip.

“Upon his passing, his spouse sent us photos from their trip around Australia and reminded us that he always said, ‘I did everything I wanted to do with that money,’” Mr Rainger said.

“It was a privilege in my position as a financial adviser to be involved and I will never forget seeing him enjoy precious time with his family.”

For more information on the program, call 13 11 20. Advisers interested in taking part can call 1300 932 117.