Changing jobs/ Re-employment

For some people, returning to the same job after cancer treatment may not be possible. These are some extra questions to think over before your job switch:

• What skills can I transfer over to my new job position?
• Will I need extra training?
• What adjustments are needed in my new job?
• How can I make the adjustment?

Talking to your employer

While you do not need to go into specific details of your cancer, you should let your employer know if your illness could become a safety hazard to yourself or others in your workplace; and focus your conversation on how cancer may impact your work performance, including some adjustments that may be needed – both practical and in terms of expectations. By opening up about your illness, it allows you to discuss support you may need in the workplace. Have an open discussion with your employer to plan the next course of action.

In the case of re-employment, while you do not need to go into specific details of your cancer, you need to let your prospective employer know about your illness for insurance purposes as indicated by Ministry of Manpower. You should not be refused employment on the basis of a previous cancer diagnosis or treatment.

You should also let your employer know if you do not want to share the information with your colleagues.

Check with your employer or HR department about how much paid and unpaid leave you are entitled to. Under Singapore’s Employment Act, you are entitled to both paid outpatient and hospitalization sick leave if you have worked for at least three months with your employer. Be sure to give your employer ample notice when you need to take time off, so that he can make other work arrangements.

Employers operating in Singapore are expected to follow the Tripartite Guidelines, which include guidelines on employment discrimination.If you think you have been unfairly treated, contact the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) for advice.

Social challenges

The diagnosis of cancer can cause most people to undergo significant adjustments in managing relationships with people around them, including co-workers. Some may find it difficult to relate to others, for fear of being treated differently. Many have to depend on their others in their cancer journey – and this may be particularly difficult for those who have been physically and/or emotionally independent all their lives. This adjustment can cause much frustration and anxiety.

You may prefer to not tell your colleagues about your cancer diagnosis. However, some people with cancer do find solace in their co-workers’ encouragement and practical support. Consider telling people whom you think are likely to be supportive. If you feel uncomfortable telling them directly, you could ask your supervisor or manager to do so. Your employer will need your permission to share information about your illness.

What you can do

Get organized. Keep a work log of meetings, duties, leave taken and appointments. File important documents like work contracts and medical leave certificates in separate folders. See https://www.nccs.com.sg/patient-care/Pages/Managing-Social-and-Work-Challenges.aspx for more tips.

Everyone copes with problems differently, but you may approach your cancer care team for help if you find that you are unable to cope with work demands, feel that your work environment is not supportive to your needs, feel isolated/ lonely at the workplace and are experiencing difficulty adjusting to changes brought about by cancer.