Next steps
When considering what you can do to support your employee, it is useful to take into account:
- the job they currently do – can they still perform this job on their return in the short, medium and longer term
- goal setting – if staff work to targets, can these be relaxed during the period of support or longer term if needed
- planning of interventions – any adjustments you agree should be put in writing so that all parties know what is expected of them (these may need to be updated)
- health advice – this is a good time to explain what support you can offer or signpost your employee to
It is important that you have an understanding of how a specific health condition might impact upon work as this will help you determine the best support to put in place. The list below provides an overview of some common long-term health conditions.
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular (heart and circulatory) disease
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Fibromyalgia
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Migraine
- MS
- Respiratory conditions
If you are self-employed, you may have financial or other concerns about keeping your business going while you are having treatment and recovering.
There are some Government benefits available if you are sick and self-employed.
There may also be charitable grants that you qualify for. Speak to the Citizen's Advice Bureau or a benefits adviser to find out more. You may find the Government-run Business Support Helpline (external site) useful.
Advice and services for employees with long-term health conditions
If one of your employees has a health condition which is impacting on their work, they could benefit from Working Health Services Scotland. This service provides free and confidential advice and health support for the self-employed and people working in companies with fewer than 250 employees.