By 2020, one in two people (47%) will get cancer at some point in their lives (Macmillan Cancer Support) and it is important that employers become well equipped to deal with employees who may have the condition.
Cancer rights at work
Employees with cancer are classed as disabled and they are protected from discrimination in the workplace from day one of diagnosis under the Equality Act 2010. Therefore, employees’ employment rights are protected and it is crucial employers are fully aware of how to deal with employees who confirm they have a long term illness such as cancer.
So what can employers do to equip themselves?
- Employers have a duty of care, so it is crucial to consider reasonable adjustments and have regular catch ups with the employee concerned to address any changes where necessary.
- Gain a better understanding of the condition and any symptoms the employee has. Additionally, looking at the impact this may have on the employee’s duties.
- Ask the employee whether they have considered letting their colleagues know as they will be more understanding of the absences from work?
- Training managers on how to deal with these challenging conversations.
- Educate your employees and raise awareness on cancer
- Check whether you have a policy in place and whether this is up to date
Depending on the nature of the role, employees may not be able to work and carry out their normal duties. Some employees may need to reduce their hours of work or they may need a longer period of time off prior to returning back to work. Returning to work may help employees to get back in to a normal routine.
Cancer also impacts family members and carers. It is crucial that employers take this into account when reviewing the impact this is having in the workplace due to the risk of associated disability discrimination.
What can employers do to help employees who are looking after someone with cancer?
Firstly, employers should speak with the employee to understand their current situation and how this impacts on their work. Also, consider if they have any other help from other family members etc. During this time, it is important that employers are sensitive to the situation since there can be a lot of emotional effects from caring that may have a large impact on the employee. Additionally, employers should ask employee’s if any reasonable adjustments may help such as amended duties, amended working hours, flexibility of start and finish times etc.
Wear it pink day 2019
Breast cancer awareness month will begin from 1st October to 31st October and many organisations will be taking part in ‘wear it pink’ day, which will be happening on 18th October. If you want further guidance on what your workplace can do to raise money, please visit https://www.wearitpink.org/.
If your organisation is finding it difficult to manage a situation concerning a carer of a disabled employee or an employee who is diagnosed with cancer, please contact Quest today for further guidance on this matter.
