Seven out 10 cancer patients do not believe their employer is fully prepared to support employees through the treatment and recovery of this disease.
A majority of cancer patients have had a negative experience in the workplace according to new insight from Reframe Cancer, the leading provider of specialist cancer support services.
Reframe Cancer says this lack of support for employees has led to a ‘talent exodus’ which is ultimately detrimental to UK businesses.
In total the report found that 73 per cent of caner patients said workplace adjustments were not made upon their return to work, while 69 per cent did not receive advice and support from HR during their cancer journey.
This Employee Experience report also found that 66 per cent of employees did not believe that their employer was quick to respond or offer support when informed about their cancer diagnosis; whilst 67 per cent said their employer did not show concern and interest during this period.
Whilst around a third of employees believe work is a ‘good distraction’ for them during their cancer battle, 67 per cent do not agree this is the case.
The report says that working with cancer can be complex, and almost a quarter of employees with cancer (22 per cent) say they feel stressed whilst working with this illness. Employees in supervisory and middle management roles felt the highest levels of stress (25 per cent) compared to just 12 per cent of those holding more junior, entry level positions.
There report also notes that 70 per cent of respondents said it was emotional impact of cancer that makes it difficult to keep working, 70 per cent also say the physical symptoms such as fatigue and nausea make it a challenge, whilst 69 per cent say the cognitive symptoms of cancer, such as brain fog, hinder their ability to work.
The report also notes that The Equality Act classifies cancer as a disability. This legal protection does not end when treatment finishes. Reframe Cancer says it’s essential that employers work within the Act to provide reasonable workplace adjustment for employees returning to work after cancer treatment.
Reframe Cancer CEO Mark Stephenson says: “There’s a positive shift with employers recognising the importance of cancer support, both legally and ethically. However, the gap between awareness and action remains concerning. Our research shows 70 per cent of employees feel their employers wouldn’t fully support them, and 73 per cent say workplace adjustments aren’t made.
“Considering most adjustments are minor, this suggests a knowledge gap rather than a lack of care. Simple changes can make all the difference to someone returning to work which can really drive workplace advocacy.”
Cavendish Ware director Roy McLoughlin added: “When employees are dealing with a critical illness such as cancer, they want to know more than ever that their employer is fully behind them and offering the best support possible, be it emotional and practical. With the right workplace policies in place, employers can help make an employee’s cancer journey a little less stressful and more comfortable. Hopefully more employers will take this on board and relook at their policies if needed.”
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