By becoming a signatory of the Trade Union Congress’ ‘Dying to Work Charter’, the Civil Service is strengthening its commitment to support colleagues facing terminal illness.
On 26 June, ministers and civil service unions signed a charter on behalf of the Civil Service, pledging to provide more support for terminally ill staff.
By becoming a signatory of the Dying to Work Charter, the Civil Service is reinforcing its position as a caring and supportive employer that understands the unique challenges faced by those living with terminal illness.
“Those of us who have had a cancer diagnosis know how important work is to give a sense of purpose and fulfilment, as well as paying the bills,” said Seonaid Webb, Chair of the Civil Service Working Through Cancer network.
“In my experience the Civil Service has been a very supportive employer, but it is great to see this formally recognised. This initiative will help not just people with a terminal diagnosis, but also their line managers by giving them confidence to do the right thing.”
The charter was created by the TUC and Dying to Work campaign founder Jacci Woodcock, who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer in 2012. It sets out the steps employers can take to provide their staff with dignity and peace of mind as they navigate a terminal diagnosis in work, including ensuring they are involved in any decision-making around how they continue in work.
The signing of the Charter builds upon years of work across all departments to ensure the right level of support is in place to give terminally ill people the security and decency they deserve, such as establishing new networks, Grief Cafes and Bereavement Champions to create safe spaces for colleagues to share experiences and access support.
Signed by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, and Parliamentary Secretary Georgia Gould, and the Minister for Employment Rights Justin Madders, the Charter says the Civil Service “recognises that terminal illness requires support and understanding and not additional and avoidable stress and worry”.
The charter already has over 400 employers signed up across the UK – from local businesses to public services big and small, covering over 1.5 million employees. The civil service sign-up means around 2 million employees are now protected by it.
New Terminal Illness Guidance has already been shared with departments in recent weeks, providing clear direction to organisations and line managers on workplace adjustments and appropriate support mechanisms. To access the new guidance, please visit the Terminal Illness module on Civil Service Learning.
