Civil Service Working Through Cancer Network, Cross-government
In the UK, one in every two people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and around one million people of working age have been told they have cancer. The impacts of COVID-19 on people affected by cancer are significant, and supporting vulnerable colleagues is vital to ensure people feel included, valued, and able to deliver their best work. The network has two principles: to support people affected by cancer, including carers and line managers; and to normalise talking about cancer in the workplace. In 2019, network chair Seonaid Webb delivered a presentation to CS Disability Champions and was then contacted by several departments looking to set up their own Working Through Cancer networks. Membership continued to grow throughout 2020, and at the last count there are 25 organisations represented in the network, including Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish governments.