DCIS diagnosis following Teaching Job offer

Hi, sorry you find yourself in this position, it's difficult I can imagine.  As I understand it, cancer (in the UK) is covered under the disability discrimination legislation, so you basically can't be treated any differently due to your diagnosis. As you have not signed a contract it's not quite as cut and dried, but you have (I assume) had a verbal offer, which I think is probably sufficient protection. So basically the school should not legally withdraw your offer due to your diagnosis. Now, that's a legal view, there is I guess a moral view too in that, whilst it will be frustrating for the head, you would hope they would be sympathetic and treat you as they would any other staff member, irrespective of the fact you've not started.

From your perspective, I guess you also need to consider if you would want to go ahead and accept the offer or rather wait and apply again once you are clearer in your treatment plan. I guess that depends on a number of factors - how strongly you feel about this job, how pressured you would feel about rushing back (as you said) and also how easy it will be to get another job in a few months time.

A lot to think about. You can chat through the legal stuff and generally ask advice from the team here at Macmillan by calling them on 0800 808 0000.  If it were me, I would do that first to try and figure out what my ideal solution would be and then I'd have a very open discussion with my new boss and take it from there.  Good luck, 

Hi

I am also a teacher, speak to the headteacher, they are very supportive, don't give up.xxx

As said you covered by disability discrimination.  You won't cost the school anything or off sick as you've no recent work service with them to trigger paid sick leave so only concern for head is work attendance, cover etc.  don't feel bad, do what you feel best. 

Thanks so much that’s really helpful x

Thanks for this. Lots to think about but yes I think I’ll call MacMillan first . X

This is very similar to my experience, I received a breast cancer diagnosis 4 weeks before I was due to start a teaching post. I would recommend ringing your teaching union to find out what you're entitled to and then speak to your head teacher. I have been supported really well by my new school despite only working 3 weeks before being signed off sick when chemo started. I hope your school is as supportive as mine has been. 

Such great advice, hope it helps. Hoping all goes well for you in your surgery

hugs cxx

Thank you so much for reply. I have now spoken with head teacher who was amazing and reassured me my job is safe and waiting for whenever I’m well enough. It’s such a relief. All the best to you x

Fantastic. I'm so pleased you've been supported too. Work can wait, you and your health are much more important. I'm also balancing treatment with 2 children so know the pressure of that too. I hope.it all goes well x

So great to hear this! I’m so pleased for you

hugs xxx