Receiving a terminal diagnosis can be the most difficult news someone will ever hear. Many people in this situation will be in employment. And yet few employers have developed comprehensive support for employees with a terminal illness. CIPD research shows that just a third (33%) of UK organisations have specific provision such as a policy, guidance, line manager training or awareness-raising.
Many of us find it very uncomfortable to talk about end-of-life illness and death. The stigma around these issues extends into the workplace. People professionals, and employers, have a responsibility to tackle this taboo and foster a compassionate culture that supports people with a terminal diagnosis. Many people need or want to carry on working with their diagnosis. With effective practical support and advice, they can continue to make a valuable contribution at work, and work safely and productively.
This guide provides practical strategies on how to create a supportive culture and people management framework for employees with a terminal diagnosis.
You should read this guide alongside the CIPD guide on supporting employees with long-term health conditions as its advice is also relevant.
What is a terminal illness?
Create an inclusive and supportive culture
We don’t typically talk about serious illness, let alone death and dying, and this stigma spills into the workplace. Very often people are afraid to talk about terminal illness for fear of saying the wrong thing, and so say nothing at all. This can feel very isolating for someone with a terminal diagnosis. Employers can play an important role in breaking down these taboos. Employees working in supportive and compassionate environments are more likely to feel able to discuss a challenging life event, including a terminal illness, and to ask for help when needed.
Develop a framework to support employees
People professionals are ideally placed to develop a proactive framework to support people with a terminal illness. This should include specific policy provision, line manager guidance and education, as well as access to sources of expert health and wellbeing support.
Manage absence and leave with compassion and flexibility
Living with a terminal illness can understandably require employees to take multiple absences from work. These could be short or long term. There’s likely to be many medical appointments and you should consider offering paid time off for these appointments (if you don’t already).
Promote good people management
Wider support for colleagues
As well as providing support and policy provision for employees with a terminal illness, your framework should consider the wider needs of other employees, including those who are caring for someone who is terminally ill. It should also provide compassionate bereavement support for employees who have lost a family member, friend or colleague through terminal illness.
Acknowledgements
CIPD Trust
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