Serious and Terminal Illness in the Workplace
Death and serious illness is not a favoured topic in the workplace. We as a society have built a taboo around such subjects so that we are insular and isolated from these matters. However, the honest fact is that in the employment environment, if you employ workers, you will be faced at some time with serious and terminal illnesses in the workplace: an employee’s or yours. Serious illness is not a respecter of person’s and usually visits when least convenient to you and your business however you must face the issue head on. You may have questions such as how long will the employee be away, do I need to keep their employment open, how should my employees and I react to the person along with many others. You should not be surprised if you experience many mixed emotions or fail to understand how to deal with these matters. This is understandable! The there is a variety of legislation you must consider before making decisions when facing such issues and your business has a number of obligations towards employees. The fact is that this is not an easy time for you as a business owner however the truth is the employee needs your support.
Whatever you do manage the process with understanding and compassion you are dealing with a human being and you yourself will face this one day. Help is a phone call away. Having assisted businesses with these matters we understand and can guide you through the maize of decisions you need to make. You are not alone, others have gone before you.