Your Rights as a Cancer Patient in the Workplace

Being diagnosed with cancer is a life-altering experience. Alongside the emotional and physical challenges, many people find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory at work. At Jill’s Fundraising Journey, we believe that no one should face this, or any part of their journey alone. Knowing your rights as a cancer patient in the workplace can help you feel more secure, empowered, and better supported during this difficult time. Let’s take at least one weight off your mind.

Good News – You’re Protected By Law

In the UK, cancer is legally recognised as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. From the moment you’re diagnosed, you’re covered. That means your employer has a legal duty to make sure you’re not treated unfairly due to your illness, and has to make reasonable adjustments to support you at work. Those can include:

• Flexible working hours to accommodate treatment or recovery

• Working from home when needed

• More frequent breaks or reduced workload

• Temporary changes to duties or responsibilities

This protection sticks around even if you’re in remission.

Remember, you do not have to accept being forced into using annual leave or unpaid leave to attend treatment appointments. Your employer is expected to accommodate your needs with compassion and understanding. If they don’t, you’re well within your rights to take legal action.

Talk to Your Employer Early

Opening up to your employer might feel a bit daunting, especially if you’re not sure how they’re going to respond. But clear, early communication often leads to better support. You don’t have to disclose every detail of your diagnosis, just what’s relevant to help them understand your needs at work. It’s also a good idea to keep a written record of conversations and agreements made, so that you have a clear trail of communication to rely on if there are questions later on.

Fit Notes and a Phased Return to Work

If you’ve been off work due to symptoms, side effects and treatment, your GP or oncologist should provide you with a fit note. This document outlines what you’re able to do, what’s safe for you to do and what adjustments might help. This can be incredibly useful, especially if you do a manual job. If you’re returning to work after treatment, you can also request a phased return, which will help you ease back into your duties gradually. Remember, this is your health and your face. A good employer will respect that.

Support at Work

You’re entitled to support at work both before, during and after your cancer treatment. That doesn’t mean everyone will give you a big hug, but it does mean that you get:

• Time off for medical appointments

• Protection from discrimination (like being overlooked for promotions or unfair dismissal)

• Access to occupational health services (if they’re available)

You should also ask if your workplace offers an Employee Assistance Programme (also known as an EAP). Many businesses do provide them, and they can include counselling, financial advice and emotional support, all of which can be especially helpful during your cancer journey.

You’re Not Alone

If you ever feel like your employer isn’t meeting their legal obligations, you have a right to seek help and support. There are lots of options out there, including:

• Macmillan cancer support

• Citizen’s advice

• ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)

All of these can provide confidential guidance, support and advocacy.

Every cancer patient deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported — not just in hospital rooms, but in workplaces too. Your strength is already being tested in so many ways; dealing with employment issues shouldn't be another burden.

Stay strong. Stay informed. And always reach out — someone is here to walk this path with you.