New research highlights inadequate support for employees affected by cancer in the UK workplace.
- A staggering 96% of companies lack specific policies for cancer management.
- Only 18% of firms collect data on employees with cancer diagnoses.
- Training gaps exist as 78% of managers are not trained to support cancer-affected staff.
- Limited access to effective benefits hinders employee return to work.
In light of recently published research by Working With Cancer, in collaboration with the Institute for Employment Studies, it is evident that UK workplaces are significantly underprepared in supporting employees affected by cancer. A staggering 96% of respondents revealed their organisations lack cancer-specific policies, highlighting a profound gap in workplace readiness and support systems for cancer-affected employees.
Despite the rising number of working-age individuals living with cancer, only 18% of companies are collecting data on employees diagnosed with this illness. This illustrates a broader systemic oversight and lack of preparedness among companies to assist employees who may require specialised accommodations or support strategies.
Furthermore, an alarming 78% of line managers have not received training on effectively supporting employees dealing with cancer. This lack of training contributes to concerns, with 48% of respondents worried about managers saying the wrong thing and 31% expressing a lack of confidence in their managers’ ability to handle sensitive discussions.
While some organisations offer benefits such as flexible work arrangements (93%), employee assistance programmes (88%), and Occupational Health referrals (80%), inconsistencies in communication delay access to these resources. Moreover, essential services like physiotherapy, health coaching, and vocational rehabilitation remain limited, leaving a gap in effective support for cancer-afflicted employees.
Quoting Barbara Wilson, founder and director of Working With Cancer, “In 2018, in the UK, there were an estimated 890,000 working age individuals living with cancer; that number is likely to be one million now.” This emphasises the urgency for businesses to implement clear policies and practices to aid employees transitioning back to work efficiently and effectively.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, echoed the importance of raising awareness about available government and workplace support options. He stressed the necessity of workplaces understanding how to best support employees with cancer, ensuring they receive comprehensive assistance to continue their professional roles.
Dr Zofia Bajorek from IES noted the presence of good practices in some areas, but underscored prevailing gaps in management capabilities and employee support. She emphasised that well-managed work environments provide therapeutic benefits to employees with cancer, underscoring the importance of employers adopting best practices to foster supportive and thriving workplaces.
The urgent need for organisations to enhance policies and training is crucial to supporting employees affected by cancer effectively.
