Employees
Cancer and work
Cancer can cause uncertainties in your work life. You may not know how it will affect work in the short term or in the future. We know it can be difficult to know where to start or what to say.
We provide a range of information and services to help you understand your options and rights as well as emotional and financial support to help you find your best way through.
Booklets and resources
Your rights at work
If you have or have had cancer, you are protected by law from unfair treatment at work for the rest of your life. This means that it is unlawful for an employer to treat you less favorably (discriminate against you) because of cancer. Under equality laws, employers should try to support you. This includes making reasonable adjustments to help you stay in or return to work when you are ready and able.
We have further detailed information on your rights at work.
How to talk to an adviser
Our Work Support Service helps people understand their rights at work after a cancer diagnosis. We offer guidance on how to talk to employers, negotiate adjustments at work, sick pay and taking time off. We can also refer people who need it to one-off legal advice.
You can contact the Work Support Service using the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00.
Our work support advisers are available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
Further information
We have information about work and cancer including:
- Talking to your employer and talking to your colleagues
- How cancer might affect your work
- Making decisions about staying or returning to work