Tim Woodman, medical director of policy and cancer services for Bupa UK Insurance, discusses how to create a supportive workplace environment for someone with cancer.
Cancer can be a life-changing experience for most people, affecting their personal and professional lives. It brings many challenges and uncertainties for the person with cancer, as well as for their friends, family and colleagues supporting them.
Knowing the best way to be there for someone living with cancer may not come easily, as no two experiences are the same.
Here, Dr Tim Woodman, medical director of policy and cancer services for Bupa UK Insurance, offers advice to help those working alongside someone going through treatment.
Working while undergoing treatment
While not everyone may be able to continue working during cancer treatment, for some, work can provide a sense of normality and routine, and even boost self-esteem.
However, this must be weighed against the physical and mental toll of treatment, as cancer and certain treatments can cause side effects that may impact a person’s ability to work as they did before their diagnosis. These may include increased pain, fatigue, digestive problems and a weakened immune system.
A cancer diagnosis and resulting treatment can also impact a person’s mental wellbeing, where they experience a range of emotional responses, such as depression, anxiety, fear, anger, shock, guilt and feelings of isolation.
Recognising that someone’s symptoms, emotions, and preferences may change over time is crucial, and being flexible, understanding, and having open communication is important for creating a supportive workplace environment.
Ask thoughtfully
Your colleague may or may not feel comfortable discussing their diagnosis or treatment. Equally, they might only feel comfortable if asked about it.
So, asking open-ended questions like, ‘How can I best support you?’ or ‘Do you feel like talking about it today?’ can give them the opportunity to share when they’re ready, without feeling pressured.
It’s important to be empathetic, approachable and let them guide the conversation.
Power of listening
Be prepared for a range of emotions, and don’t take it personally if they become upset, angry or withdrawn. Often, just being there to listen can provide more comfort than trying to offer solutions.
Avoid pushing for answers or trying to fix things – instead, let them steer the conversation. If they need silence, be comfortable with that too. Allowing for moments of quiet can sometimes create space for more open and honest dialogue.
Empathy over optimism
When someone is going through a difficult time, it might feel natural to offer reassurance or tell them everything will be fine with phrases like ‘stay strong’.
However, this may feel dismissive of the very real fears and anxieties they might be experiencing. Listening to their worries and simply saying ‘I’m here for you’ can be more meaningful.
Most people living with cancer will have also researched and be well-informed about their condition, so it’s best not to tell them there are all kinds of ‘new’ treatments available. The best approach is to focus on being present and emotionally available, rather than trying to provide solutions.
Keep things light
Your colleague might use work as a distraction, and that’s okay.
Similarly, talking about different everyday topics, like TV shows, sports, or weekend plans, can provide much-need light relief. Once more, gauge the situation, and let your colleague guide these conversations.
Supporting flexible work arrangements
As someone’s treatment progresses, your colleague may need to take more frequent breaks or work remotely if they can. Accommodating these changes not only shows empathy, but can also help reduce the stress of balancing work with ongoing medical treatment.
Make sure they feel comfortable discussing any adjustments they may need and reassure them that it’s okay to take time away from work when required.
Some workplaces like Bupa will offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or other mental health resources, which could be helpful for someone navigating cancer treatment. Make sure your team is aware of these options, and where to access these services if they need it.
Ultimately, supporting a colleague with cancer requires care, compassion, and a willingness to adapt to their changing needs.
By remaining flexible, listening without judgment, and offering empathy over solutions, you can make a significant difference in their journey, where they feel supported both professionally and personally to help them navigate this challenging time.
Further resources
You can visit the Bupa cancer information hub by searching www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/cancer
Macmillan’s work and cancer resources can also be found on www.macmillan.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/how-we-work/work-and-cancer.
This article is sponsored by Bupa Dental Care.
