It is important to remember that each person may
require different support. So how can businesses
equip HR professionals and line managers to provide
the best individual support for staff they manage,
while adhering to organisational policies?
Often one of the biggest concerns can be starting
the initial conversation with the individual who has
been diagnosed with cancer. Initiating conversations
and keeping communication channels open are key
steps in gaining an understanding of the individual
needs and support required in the work place. It’s
also important to discuss arrangements for keeping
in touch with an employee before their absence, and
to maintain appropriate contact with them during
periods of sick leave.
Macmillan at Work
Training and information can help organisations
prepare their staff to manage the impact of long
term conditions. Macmillan at Work is designed to
help workplaces support employees with a cancer
diagnosis, or those caring for someone with cancer.
To find out about the expert training, guidance
and resources Macmillan provides,
visit
macmillan.org.uk/atwork
You can also email the team at
workandcancer@
macmillan.org.uk
or call 020 7840 4725.
Each year, more than an estimated 125,000
people of working age are diagnosed with cancer
in the UK, and with survival rates improving and
people retiring later, this figure is set to rise.
This is why Macmillan has developed workplace
training, guidance and resources to support
HR and line managers with managing people
affected by cancer in the workplace.
For people with cancer, staying in or returning
to work can be hugely positive. However, it can
be difficult to know how to support someone with
cancer, as there are a number of challenges they
may face.
In the workplace, reasonable adjustments are often
needed to help deal with the side effects of cancer
and its treatment. Fatigue, pain and depression
are some of the common side effects, so making
reasonable adjustments such as flexible working
and time off to attend medical appointments can
make a big difference to someone affected by
cancer. Cancer is classed as a disability under the
Equality Act or Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)
so employers are required to make reasonable
adjustments if the location, working arrangements or
a lack of extra support puts someone with cancer at
a substantial disadvantage.
Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604).
Also operating in Northern Ireland.
/atwork
/macmillan.org.uk