New agreement ‘game-changer’ for staff cancer support

St Andrews’ trade union representatives and the University have had their efforts to extend cancer support for staff recognised in the Scottish Parliament.

Thought to be the first such agreement in the HE sector and one of the most generous employee benefits of its kind, St Andrews staff affected by cancer will now be entitled to 12-week paid phase return to work as well as other support for their health and wellbeing.

The agreement between the University and UNISON has been recognised by North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie who lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament this week.

UNISON representative Alex Duncan, who led the initiative, said: “Cancer in the workplace affects most of us, and the University is no different, with cases rising every year. While some cases are incredibly difficult, others have treatment and aftercare, resulting in a good recovery. Aftercare is significantly important, as those going through treatment often experience fatigue for extended periods. Recognising cancer as a significant issue, both UNISON and the University have now completed a review and implementation of new support.”

Commenting on the benefits for staff, Alex added: “The most significant change is extending a phased return from the current 8 weeks – which is very generous – to a 12-week phased return on full pay, which is a game-changer for our staff.

“This means that an employee with the requisite service and contract can receive six months of full pay, 12 weeks of full pay on a phased return, and then annual leave, which could be equivalent to a year’s full pay altogether. I am not aware of any other employer who is as generous, and I would hope that if this could be publicised, other employers could attempt to follow this example by looking to extend a phased return approach to the aftercare.”

Other improvements agreed and implemented are:
• A closer working relationship with Maggie’s Centre in Kirkcaldy
• A dedicated webpage for cancer support with all the information a staff member would require in one place
• A new, improved letter for HR detailing support, how sick pay works, support available from Occupational Health, Trade Unions, Chaplaincy, etc.
• Improved communication with line managers, agreeing on a contact schedule, so important for both line managers and the employee
• Seminars on cancer in the workplace provided by Maggie’s.

North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie said: “I want to congratulate the University and the UNISON branch for agreeing this strong set of measures to improve support for staff affected by cancer. The inclusion of twelve-weeks phased return on full pay, in particular, will help those recovering from cancer with aftercare needs.

“The agreement represents a significant commitment to staff wellbeing and reflects the considerable efforts of Alex Duncan and the UNISON branch. I believe that the University has set a very positive example which I hope other employers will follow.”