New research highlights significant gaps in UK workplace policies for employees affected by cancer.
- A staggering 96% of companies lack cancer-specific policies, leaving employees without crucial support.
- Training for line managers is insufficient, with 78% untrained in supporting cancer-affected staff.
- Many employers offer basic benefits but fail to provide critical health-related services.
- Experts urge businesses to establish clear cancer policies and improve management training.
Recent research by Working With Cancer, in partnership with the Institute for Employment Studies, reveals that an overwhelming 96% of UK companies do not have specific policies in place to support employees diagnosed with cancer. This lack of framework leaves many affected individuals navigating their illness without adequate workplace support, potentially hindering their transition back to work.
A major concern highlighted in the study is the insufficient training provided to line managers, with 78% of respondents acknowledging that their managers have not received guidance on how to support employees living with cancer. Such gaps in training contribute to 48% of managers fearing they might say something inappropriate, while 31% lack confidence in handling difficult conversations regarding the illness.
Even though many workplaces offer flexible hours, employee assistance programs, and Occupational Health referrals, there is a noticeable deficit in more specialized support like access to physiotherapy, health coaching, and vocational rehabilitation. These services, available only in 40%, 27%, and 10% of workplaces respectively, are vital for helping cancer-affected employees reintegrate effectively into their work environments.
The research accentuates the critical need for companies to be more proactive in their approach to managing long-term health conditions in the workplace. Barbara Wilson, director of Working With Cancer, emphasizes the importance of establishing clear policies and practices, which she believes will provide much-needed clarity and ease the return-to-work process for employees with cancer. She notes a significant increase in the working-age population living with cancer, urging immediate action.
In addition, Sir Stephen Timms and Dr. Zofia Bajorek echo the concern for improved support, pointing out that well-managed employment conditions can have therapeutic benefits. They call for enhanced awareness and understanding of available support mechanisms, stressing that more comprehensive training and information dissemination are needed to bridge the existing gaps.
The research underscores the necessity for UK businesses to enhance support mechanisms and training to better assist employees affected by cancer.
