I had surgery for cancer in 2001 also had radiotherapy and have had a few ops since. recovery has gone really well. Now four years on aged 26 I am finding it really hard to get back into work as employers are not willing to give me a chance i was an electronic engineer and am willing to retarain, was wondering if anybody knows of any organisations that can help me with this problem.

Hi Andy

I am sorry to hear that you have been having problems in getting a job. There is some helpful advice mentioned in the topic Benefits for Cancer Patients.You could ask for advice from the Bradford Cancer Support Group or the one in Leeds. Have you asked about help at your local Job Centre? I hope you get the help you need. Do let us know how you get on.

Best wishes
Vinod

Hello Andy You have had a tough time and at such a young age too. We do have a few other very young people on this site who might want to share some of your experiences. I can't advise you on the work front but certainly hope that someone else has positive advice for you. I just know it is difficult finding the right job at the best of times and you have to make it a project in itself just applying for anything and everything until you are given an interview. I know you will feel that your operation is going against you, but that can't take away what knowledge and experience you had beforehand - and if you are willing to retrain, then any employer worth his salt would admire you for that. Just keep at it. I hope you get some helpful advice - let us know how you get on. Good luck Brenda.

Hello Andy

Looks like this issue is attracting attention. This article in BBC News: Workplace failing cancer patients has some useful information and helpful links.

quote:

Cancer patients are unnecessarily losing out in the workplace, a survey has found.

quote:

It said the government, health professionals and employers should act to help the 90,000 people of working age diagnosed with cancer annually.

Let's hope things will get better.

Best wishes
Vinod