The Dying to Work Charter: Supporting Employees with Terminal Illness
Labour stated in its Plan to Make Work Pay that it encourages employers to sign up to the TUC’s Dying to Work Charter (‘the Charter’) and, in October 2024, confirmed it would support workers with a terminal illness through the Charter as part of its programme of wider reform.
On 18 December 2024, a debate took place in the House of Commons on the employment rights of people with terminal illness. The government has worked with Acas to promote the Charter and is looking closely at implementing it across government. Once this has been done, the government intends to encourage others to sign up to it.
What is the Dying to Work Charter?
The Charter is a voluntary pledge for employers to commit to protecting the employment rights of employees diagnosed with a terminal illness. Its primary goal is to ensure that terminally ill employees:
- Feel secure in their employment and are not pressured into leaving work prematurely.
- Maintain their dignity by being treated with compassion and respect.
- Have the freedom to decide how they wish to balance work and their illness, whether they choose to continue working or not.
The Charter emphasises that terminally ill workers should not face unnecessary stress about their jobs during an already challenging time.
Why should employers support the Charter?
- While employees with terminal illnesses are often protected under the Equality Act 2010, the Charter goes beyond legal obligations to provide additional reassurance and support. By adopting the Charter, employers demonstrate their commitment to fairness and non-discrimination.
- Supporting terminally ill employees sends a clear message to the workforce that the organisation values and respects its people. This fosters loyalty, boosts morale, and strengthens the employer brand.
- Companies that sign the Charter show they prioritise ethical practices. This can enhance their reputation with customers, investors, and potential recruits.
How to Adopt the Dying to Work Charter in the Workplace
- Familiarise yourself with the details of the Charter and its implications for your organisation.
- Audit your existing HR policies to ensure they align with the Charter’s principles. Update policies on sick leave, flexible working, and occupational health.
- Equip managers and HR personnel with training on how to sensitively and effectively support terminally ill employees.
Comment
Signing the Charter not only demonstrates a commitment to treating employees with dignity and respect but also reduces the risk of employment tribunal claims by aiding compliance with the Equality Act 2010. By adopting the Charter, employers can foster a culture of compassion, strengthen their reputation, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of terminally ill employees and their families.
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