Working through IV chemo

[Enigma54]

Is anyone working whilst on chemo?
I’m only a third of the way through my chemo ( gemcitabine and docetaxol) and I’m finding it tough. However, this week I feel well and as I work in a school and the new term has just started, I feel guilty for not being at work.

Ive been off work for 6 months already and face being dismissed on medical grounds. I can’t say when I will be fit for work or even if this chemo is going to work.

My Head is going through the correct channels and following the absence management policy; holding meetings etc.

I don’t know whether to try and apply for ill health retirement now. I’m 54.

Thanks.

Do you have a union?

Wishing you a full recovery xx

I would really hope that you can't be dismissed - you really need to speak to your union rep. If you don't belong to a union, have a look at the MacMillan website to see what your statutory rights are here.

Thanks both. Yes i am with unison and have a rep. We’ve looked at the absence management policy and yes, I can be dismissed on medical grounds. I know I can’t be absent indefinitely and we need to draw a line somewhere.

Chemo might work ( we are trying to shrink a tumour) then again, it might not. I feel in limbo and having to navigate myself through making the right decision re: work, is adding to my plate.

Gosh, I'm so sorry @Enigma54 . I worked in the private sector and was fortunate to be able to take 8 months off for cancer treatment before returning to work on a phased basis. I did subsequently retire early as I was refused a change to part time working. It would be good to explore all your options and see how accommodating your employer could be. If you do return to work, they will have an obligation to "make reasonable adjustments" to your working pattern etc as this is part of the Equality Act 2010 for those who have had cancer. However, as in my case, this may not suit you. I recommend contacting MacMillan though, as they have a lot of experience in all of these matters.

I am working through chemo. Generally taking the day off for chemo and up to 4 days after if I am not feeling well enough. However I am desk based and can work from home. I am also feeling very well. My sick note says I can work as I feel able.

That’s good. I’m school based and no wfh option unfortunately.

Unfortunately, you can be dismissed. There isn’t another way in the system and, by doing so, your employer has to pay you a month's notice in lieu of notice, which financially is probably the fairest they can offer.

Apply for ill-health retirement, take the dismissal and pay, and concentration on your health. The last place you need to be if the chemo drugs are going to compromise your immune system is a school as we head into winter.

Are you in contact with the general school population or isolated? You are at massive risk of infection. I would not recommend you being in work ... can you work from home? Ask if so.

@Enigma54 You should be covered under the Equality Act 2010. It classifies cancer as a disability from the moment of diagnosis, providing protection against discrimination in areas like employment, education, and services in England, Scotland, and Wales. This protection continues even after successful treatment.

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/practically/the-disability-discrimination-act-equality-act-and-cancer