Cancer in Workplace Resource Hub
Approximately 1 in 2 people in the UK are expected to be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. This statistic is based on the current trends in cancer incidence and reflects the growing impact of the disease. Because it is so common, the University has thought about the impact cancer may have on our colleagues and our work and is committed to supporting colleagues who are affected in some way by a diagnosis of cancer.
This guidance outlines information and resources to support you if:
- you are diagnosed with cancer
- you become a carer for someone who is diagnosed with cancer
- you are a manager supporting a colleague impacted by cancer
Our Principles
- The University will respect the privacy of any colleague affected directly or indirectly (i.e. via close family or friends), by cancer. No sensitive information of any kind should therefore be shared with anyone, without your prior consent. You also have the right to say what purpose the information should or should not be used for.
- The University will comply with all statutory requirements regarding the request and disclosure of medical information.
- Due consideration must be given to relevant data protection obligations around a colleague’s status and responsibilities as a carer, sharing information only as agreed with the colleague and as far as is necessary to ensure effective support is provided.
- The University is committed to supporting the wellbeing of colleagues and will provide a safe and healthy working environment in line with a wider focus on improving colleague health and wellbeing.
- The University will manage colleague absence in a fair, consistent and sensitive manner in line with the outlined procedure. Training and support will be offered to line managers to support the application of this guidance.
- All absences from work due to ill-health must be reported and recorded appropriately.
- Line managers are required to duly consider all requests for support consistent with policy provisions and should hold regular dialogue with colleagues to ensure a reasonable and supportive environment is maintained.
- The University recognises that colleagues may need to balance work and caring responsibilities and seeks to provide reasonable support to its carer population.
- Staff with caring responsibilities must not be treated unfairly either as a result of their caring responsibilities or for requesting support in line with this policy. Requests for carers leave should not be unreasonably refused.