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Return to work

Z12
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Hi I worked part time during chemo , went back to work full time wasn’t even checked on or supported , given additional duties to the point of breaking after  3 months . I have  been off for 4 months , I have been in a bad place mentally had therapy and am now returning to work . I don’t feel great I have constant colds , a frozen shoulder Im waiting for treatment . I need to work as benefits say Im fit to work and I need money .  My first shift back is for 8 hours it was originally 9.5 which I said I couldn’t do physically.i am  in hospitality so on my feet and it can get busy . Is this unreasonable? 
Thanks Zoë 

  • Dear   ,

    Thank you for getting in touch. I'm so sorry to hear of what you’re going through and the issues you describe with your workplace following treatment, I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you. You mention you’ve been in a bad place mentally so I’m pleased to hear that you have had therapy which I really hope has helped. However it can’t be easy returning to work given the physical issues you are still experiencing so I hope I can provide some information that may help you get the support you need with this matter.

    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 about your current situation with work too, their contact number is 0808 800 0082 and they are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.

    And 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

     

    You mention that you have been told you are fit to work however some people who work may still be eligible for benefits due to their illness so I wonder if you’ve ever used our online benefits calculator or spoken with our Welfare Rights team here at Macmillan? This team can carry out a benefits check to see what, if any, financial support you may be entitled to. If you feel this may help, please know you can chat to the team online by starting a new chat and selecting the option, 'Welfare, Benefits, and Grants’ or you can call our freephone support line 0808 808 00 00 and press option 1 then 2 to speak to that team. Their opening hours are Monday – Friday 8am– 6pm.

    I really hope this information is helpful Zoe. And please do remember we are here for emotional support too as we understand how difficult a situation like this can be so please do get back in touch if you have any questions or need further support.

    Take care,

    Marie, Information and Support Adviser

    Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or by email.

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