I moved house and changed jobs towards the end of 2016. I was excited for my new adventures, including progressing my career in Human Resources. Soon after, I began to experience symptoms of endometriosis. Whilst undergoing various tests, I felt comfortable discussing how I was feeling with both my manager and work colleagues.
Prior to my diagnosis, I’d had a number of absences from work and was worried about being formally monitored. However, my employer was very understanding and offered me the option of working from home or from another office which was closer to home.
Following my diagnostic laparoscopy, I was signed off by my consultant for two weeks. My GP then recommended a phased return to work, building up my hours and splitting my time between the office and home. I’m lucky that my employer was able to accommodate this. I know this isn’t the case for many people.
From a Human Resources perspective, it is important to remember that employers will have procedures in place that a manager has to follow if employees are off sick. As part of this process an employee may have to see occupational health in order to have their fitness for work assessed. During this process, reasonable adjustments should be considered, such as, flexible working options. Every employer has a duty of care to their employees.
- Vicky
