New Job..............

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Hi - just need some advice!!
I’ve just started new job, first one since finished treatment in 2009.
I have 2 hospital check ups next month, should I be expected to make my time up for going during work, or is that what I’m covered for under Equality Act???

Thanks

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Hi runa

This link will take you to the BCC ‘EMPLOY’ charter information page where you can download publications relating to your query:

breastcancercare.org.uk/employ/

If you have further queries please feel free to call our helpliners on 0808 800 6000, weekdays 9-5 and Sat 9-2.

Best wishes
Lucy

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Hi Runa

my understanding is that employers have to make reasonable adjustments under the equality act, which includes hospital appointments. However they are not obliged to pay you for this with the expectation you use annual, make time up etc.

Where I work, gp and dentist we take in our time but when we are under the care/attend hospital this is in work time as a kind of authorised leave. I am going to Penny Brohn at beginning of July for 3 days and my boss deems this as treatment for my health so I don’t need to use my own leave.

Are you able to discuss with your manager? Do they have a real understanding of you, this treatment and its aftermath. I luckily have a job and a manager which does though I am careful not to abuse this.

hope you get it shorted out

karen x

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I am looking for a part time job now that my youngest is at school. Does anyone know if i have to mention that ive had bc (still on tamoxifen and 6 monthly appts) ? Can i just pretend im “normal” ?! (looking for eve work so appts wont clash with work anyway)

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For the interview process and talking with people you are going to work with I don’t believe you are under ANY obligation to mention health issues, family situation or other personal information. As I understand it, if you are asked about your health at your interview (rather than when speaking to HR after being offered a job) and the company then turns you down for the job they could be in hot water regarding discrimination.

As you’ve had a break to raise your family and the cancer stuff happened during that break, I can’t see any reason why you HAVE to mention it at interview.

But I could be wrong. Give the helpline a ring and see what they advise, in case I am.

As for “pretending” that you’re normal, you ARE normal!!!

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I think the crux of is whilst you don’t have to mention your health conditions actually at interview, the HR health assessment form would need to be completed as accurately as possible. If you omit any details (and hr often ask permission to contact your GP, don’t know if they ever do) and you have illness at at later date specifically connected to the ailment omitted, it may land you in hot water, especially if the condition means you are unable to perform the job adequately.

Definitely seek advice on this so that you can make your mind up what you want to do.

Karen x