Northumbria Police and the Northumbria office of the Police and Crime Commissioner have signed the TUC’s Dying to Work Charter, on behalf of 5,092 police officers and police staff.
The Dying to Work campaign aims to protect the rights of individuals at work with a terminal illness. The charter sets out an agreed way in which an employee should be treated and supported in the event of a terminal diagnosis.
The emphasis is on choice, ensuring an individual has help and support however they decide to proceed – whether continuing at work in some way, spending their remaining time with family and friends, or some other option.
UNISON signed the charter in its own role as an employer of 1,200 staff in October 2019.
Ben Priestley, UNISON national officer with the police and justice group, welcomed the Northumbria announcement as “great news”.
And he added: “The charter guarantees the dignity and security of employees who wish to remain at work after receiving a terminal illness diagnosis.
“The Police Staff Council for England and Wales is promoting the charter to all forces as part of the agreement for the 2019 pay award.
“In addition to Northumbria, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire forces have already signed up. UNISON hopes that many more forces will follow suit.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “Your job should be the last thing on your mind when you’re given a terminal diagnosis. You need dignity, you need money, you need a responsible employer who will step up and help you through the difficulties that lie ahead.
“Our officers and staff help so many people in their times of need – it’s only right that our organisations do the same.”
