Initial research carried out by Macmillan with large employers (>250 employees) found nearly a fifth of line managers felt either quite or very uncomfortable talking about cancer. Further findings indicated a relatively weak understanding of cancer as an illness and its effects in the workplace, with 90% of line managers saying they would benefit from additional resources or support, both online and offline, as well as access to more bespoke face-to-face support.
In response to these findings and subsequent market research, Macmillan set up a programme of information, training and resources for employers called Macmillan at Work. Macmillan also carries out awareness-raising with employers, to help reduce the stigma of cancer in the workplace, and shift employer perceptions.
To support the retention of people with cancer who want to stay in or return to work after treatment, we need to see employers:
- Demonstrating proactive leadership to ensure their workplaces have appropriate HR policies in place, and that policies are applied flexibly by their HR and line managers, to support the retention of staff with cancer.
- Ensuring HR and line managers have the skills and capacities to manage staff with disabilities and long-term health conditions, including educating line managers understand their obligations under Equalities legislation and their duty to make reasonable adjustments for employees with cancer.
- Promoting the importance of ongoing line manager communication with employees affected by cancer, so that there is a firm understanding of what support an employee affected by cancer may need to stay in or return to work when they are ready and able to do so.
- Improving their understanding of the benefits to their businesses of supporting staff with disabilities and other long-term health conditions.
Resources for Employers
If you're an employer you can support staff through training, policy development and resources. Macmillan at Work can help you manage cancer in the workplace.
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