Charnwood Borough Council – which delivers services such as planning, leisure facilities and museums across the district, has today signed up to the Dying to Work Charter in partnership with trade union UNISON.
Charnwood UNISON branch has been working with Charnwood Borough Council to gain their support for the Dying to Work Charter, which protects employees who are terminally ill.
The Dying to Work Charter was set up by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to ensure employers respond to the needs of terminally ill employees, recognising that these are people who require support and understanding, not additional and avoidable stress and worry. The Charter also recognises that if staff want to continue working in safe and reasonable work, this can help maintain dignity and offer a therapeutic distraction.
It aims to provide employees with security of work, peace of mind and the right to choose the best course of action for themselves during challenging times, with dignity and without undue financial loss. This includes being able to have time off, having adequate employment protection, and having their death in benefits protected for any loved ones they leave behind.
UNISON Charnwood branch secretary Seb Wilkins said: “I am delighted that the council has signed up to the Dying to Work Charter.
“Staff are incredibly dedicated and work within a challenging environment. They deserve the peace of mind that if they are diagnosed with a terminal condition, they will be treated with respect in a supportive workplace. Every person battling terminal conditions deserves the choice of how to spend their final months.”
UNISON East Midlands regional organiser Elliot Dean said: “Your job should be the least of your worries when you get a terminal diagnosis. I am delighted that Charnwood Borough Council have shown real leadership in this area. They are working with UNISON to guarantee fair treatment for terminally-ill workers.”
More info on the Dying to Work campaign can be found at this link.