A new “Cancer Care at Work” framework has been announced to enable employers and businesses to create a policy and support system for employees who receive a cancer diagnosis or are supporting a loved one undergoing treatment.
The initiative has been launched by marketing communications company Core, and cancer support centre Purple House.
Research conducted ahead of the launch highlighted the areas that employees would like to see contained in a workplace cancer policy.
These include emotional support such as counselling services, physical support such as flexible treatment accommodations, education and training for managers and financial support.
A survey of over 1,000 people showed that half of respondents would feel uncomfortable disclosing a cancer diagnosis to an employer, while seven in ten fear a cancer diagnosis would negatively impact career progression.
“With one in two people likely to receive a diagnosis in their lifetime, it is imperative that employers introduce policies that support employees undergoing a cancer diagnosis or treatment,” said Nicola Gillen, Chief of Staff at Core.
“This research confirms what many employees living with cancer already know – while workplaces want to help, the policies and structures simply aren’t there,” she added.
Conor O’Leary, Director of Operations at Purple House Cancer Support, said it is crucial to create an environment where those affected by cancer feel supported and understood.
“The time to act is now,” Mr O’Leary said.
“Irish businesses must take meaningful steps to ensure that those diagnosed with cancer feel supported, valued, and empowered to remain in the workforce,” he added.
The study was conducted from August 2024 to February 2025, gathering insights from a nationally representative sample of 1,000 members of the general public, 85 employers across various sectors and in-depth qualitative interviews with employees who have experienced cancer.
