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Pressure returning to work

CCLM
  • 2 replies
  • 10 subscribers
  • 82 views

I need some support about going back to work. I was unexpectedly diagnosed with an aggressive tumour and was told I had colon cancer as well as leisons in my liver. I had chemo, surgery, chemo, surgery, chemo during 2023-2024.

I am off sick from work unpaid, but HR have told me if I don't return this week they will look to a decision manager about me loosing my job. I had Occupational health last week, who have reported I am unfit for work, but I feel I am being pressured by HR to return.

I really don't know what to do as I am now under investigation and had an urgent mRi last week. Occ health and my oncologist advised me to wait for the results, but I'm really worried I'm going to loose my job.

I'm having panic attacks about the return, as well as the thoughts regarding the results. What should I do?

  • Dear  ,

    Thank you for your getting in touch. I'm so sorry to hear of your diagnosis and the situation with your workplace, I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you as you try to deal with your illness and wait further results. I hope I can provide some information that may help you get the support you need with this matter as soon as possible.

    Firstly, may I ask if you have contacted ACAS, who have a free and confidential helpline for anyone that needs employment advice? If not, then you can call them on 0300 123 1100, they’re open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. 

    You can also contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service for guidance too, their contact number is 0808 800 0082 and they are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.

    If it may also help, please find below links to booklets and information from our website relating to work and cancer: 

    Macmillan Website – 

    Work and cancer

    Cancer and employment rights

    Macmillan booklets – 

    Work and cancer – (booklet)

    Your rights at work when you are affected by cancer

    I really hope this information is helpful.  And although we don’t deal with workplace issues at Macmillan please do remember we are here for you as we understand the emotional toll a situation like this can have. Please do get back in touch if you have any questions or need further support.

    Take care,

    Marie S - Macmillan

    Cancer Information and Support Adviser

    Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or by email.

  • Thank you so much for the information 

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