While business doesn’t stop for a cancer diagnosis, it’s becoming increasingly important for workplaces to be prepared. One in three New Zealanders are likely to receive a diagnosis in their lifetime. A main challenge employers face is how to provide sufficient flexibility with the everyday realities of business.

Navigating Cancer in the Workplace

Chief Executive of Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty, Helen Carter, is tackling this issue head-on. She is supported by Dr. Heather Connolly, who is joining her from the University of Waikato.  This comes as they noticed an increase in people who find that work has become a major stressor during their cancer journeys.

Over the past few months, Helen and Heather have been speaking with business leaders across the region. The duo is sharing their insights and identifying how they can help. The sessions are eye-opening for all involved. As Helen explains, “We’ve clearly hit a nerve. People want to talk about it, and they want to do it honestly, without feeling judged because it’s stressful for them too. What’s clear is business leaders want to do the right thing but they’re often sailing blind, with no knowledge about the treatment process and no policies and processes to guide them. Most are also managing tight budgets and teams who can only plug gaps for so long.”

She continues, “Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty is well placed to help

businesses develop a more nuanced understanding of the cancer experience.  The business leaders we’re talking to are highly receptive to what we have to offer. And they’re highly influential.  Maintaining a positive relationship with work while on a cancer journey helps people retain a sense of purpose and connection at a time when they need it most.  This puts them in the best possible mindset while on their treatment journey.”

Your local Cancer Society can help

The Cancer Society is also positioned to help business leaders manage expectations around areas like privacy and communication. This means thinking outside the box when it comes to working arrangements. And also arming them with the tools and confidence they need to lean into hard conversations.

Working with the business community in this way is new for Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty. But the team is excited about the potential.

Helen wants to make it easier for business to engage her team or just pick up the phone and ask for advice. “Business leaders are an important but overlooked part of the chain when it comes to cancer care. I’d love to see a future where professional development about navigating cancer at work is BAU.  Everyone we’re speaking to is genuinely engaged and eager to learn more.”

Where to get more information

• For a free basic guide on how to navigate cancer work, check out this free resource developed locally to support business leaders.
• To find out more about how your business can work with Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty, contact Dr Heather Connolly.
• Help Cancer Society grow this mahi by supporting Daffodil Day on Friday 30 August.