Stockport Health UNISON branch have been working with the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust to gain their support for the Dying to Work Charter, which protects employees who are terminally ill.
The trust, which runs Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services across Stockport, has signed up to the Dying to Work Charter together with trade unions including UNISON.
The Dying to Work Charter was set up by the TUC to ensure employers respond to the needs of terminal employees, recognising that these are people who require support and understanding, not additional and avoidable stress and worry. The Charter also recognises 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 loves ones they leave behind.
UNISON Stockport Health Branch Secretary and Healthcare Assistant David McAllister led the campaign for the Trust to sign up to the Charter and was present at the signing of the charter. He said: "The TUC Dying to Work Charter is close to my heart. I am so pleased the trust has signed up to it.
“My dear friend and fellow UNISON Branch Secretary Jean Blevin worked with The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust who signed up to this before she sadly passed away from a terminal illness in August 2020. It is an honour to continue Jean’s legacy who wanted to make sure that no one who receives a terminal diagnosis would suffer additional strife at work or financial concerns.”
“Every person battling terminal conditions deserves the choice of how to spend their final months. When staff are faced with such a tough diagnosis, we are committed to ensuring that they are treated with respect in a supportive work environment.”
More info on the Dying to Work campaign can be found at this link and below.
