EPNE hosts Cancer Support in the Workplace roundtable

Education Partnership North East (EPNE) recently hosted a vital roundtable discussion focused on supporting the development of policy and workplace practices for employees living with precancerous conditions or cancer.

The event at Sunderland College’s City Campus brought together key organisations from across the Northeast to explore how employers can develop more inclusive and enabling workplaces which recognise the lifechanging impact on employees, from their diagnosis and throughout the cancer journey.

Discussions focused on the emotional impact of a serious diagnosis, and the sense of anxiety, fear and loss that often manifests. Colleagues shared personal and professional insights into the life changing emotional, cognitive, physical, financial and employment challenges often faced by those affected, and the vital role employers play.

In attendance were representatives from a range of education, health, housing, utility, local government and charitable organisations linked to cancer.

These included; Sunderland College (on behalf of Education Partnership North East), Derwentside College, East Durham College, Newcastle College, Fighting All Cancers Together (FACT), Gentoo Group, Live Well with Cancer, Maggie’s Cancer Centre, MB Human Resources Consulting Ltd, Northern Cancer Alliance, Northumbrian Water and Sunderland City Council.

Organisations authentically shared their varying approaches to leading and transforming workplace culture and practice. The round table brough to the surface the different stages of employer progress and development across the Northeast, and as an outcome, participants commitment to action.

Ally Young, Executive Director of People and Organisational Development at EPNE, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to all the organisations who joined us for this important conversation. As employers, we have a clear responsibility to support those living with or affected by cancer in the workplace – with empathy, flexibility, and practical action.

“As a changemaking organisation, this roundtable marks the beginning of our ongoing commitment to improving workplace policy and practice within and beyond the boundaries or our own organisation. We look forward to continuing these vital discussions to build truly inclusive and compassionate working environments across the region.”

During the event, EPNE openly shared its Cancer Support Employee Handbook with participants to seek feedback and inspire other organisations. The policy handbook is designed to be both a practical guide and a clear support policy for anyone within the college group who is affected by a precancerous condition or cancer.

Offering straightforward guidance, emotional support, and useful resources all in one place, the handbook aims to be enabling and empowering, taking a more employee-led approach based on their needs.

As a key partner of EPNE, Susan Fulton, Executive Director of Customer, People & Engagement, said: “At Gentoo, we believe that compassion and flexibility must be at the heart of workplace culture especially when supporting colleagues affected by cancer. We’re proud to have joined EPNE’s roundtable to share our journey and learn from others.

“By listening, adapting, and acting with empathy, we can create truly inclusive environments where every employee feels seen, supported and empowered throughout their personal and professional challenges.”

One in three people will be affected by cancer, with the most significant rise in diagnoses seen among those aged 25 to 49 — a group that has experienced an increase of approximately 25%.

EPNE recognises the real impact it can have on work and life. The Cancer Support Handbook is just one part of our wider commitment to creating a more inclusive, understanding, and supportive workplace for all.