A brain tumour diagnosis can raise many questions about work. You may be wondering whether to tell your employer what adjustments you’re entitled to, or how treatment might affect your job.
You are not alone in facing these decisions. There are legal protections in place to support you, and practical steps that can help make work more manageable.
You are not legally required to disclose a diagnosis immediately. However, telling your employer can help protect you and ensure your safety at work, particularly if you are at risk of seizures or side effects from treatment.
Sharing information may also make it easier to access workplace support or adjustments.
Under the Equality Act 2010, people diagnosed with cancer are automatically considered to have a disability from the point of diagnosis. This means you are protected from discrimination at work.
Your employer has a duty to consider reasonable adjustments to help you remain in work where possible.
Reasonable adjustments may include:
Adjustments will depend on your role and individual needs.
You may need time away from work for treatment, recovery or managing side effects. Your employer should discuss options with you, which may include sick leave, phased return or flexible arrangements.
If you are unsure about your rights, seeking independent employment advice may be helpful.
If you’re unsure how to approach conversations at work, or need help understanding your rights, our Support Professionals are here to listen and guide you.
01454 422 701 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
Our services are free and confidential. If it’s outside office hours, you can complete our request support form and we’ll be in touch.
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Returning to work, or trying to keep working, can be one of the most difficult parts of life after a brain tumour diagnosis. The impact is often hidden: fatigue, cognitive changes, anxiety, loss of confidence, and the pressure of explaining what’s changed.
This Brain Tumour Awareness Month, we’re sharing real experiences that highlight what people and families face beyond treatment, including work, finances, caregiving and life after loss. If you’re navigating conversations with an employer or colleague, you’re not alone.
Explore the campaign to read stories, find support and better understand the wider impact that so many people carry quietly.
Explore Brain Tumour Awareness Month
Support for the whole family after a brain tumour diagnosis When Jane was diagnosed with a brain tumour in March 2025, her world changed in an instant. She had felt well, apar(...)
Read Read moreAfter being diagnosed with a high grade brain tumour, Elaine faced treatment, family worries and major life changes. With support from Brain Tumour Support, she found space to(...)
Read Read moreRobert’s story: finding hope again on the waves From childhood, Robert’s passion was surfing. As a competitive rower too, he had always been fit, active and happiest when (...)
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29 July 2026
Brain tumour charities call for progress on research, treatment and support This month, we joined five other key organisations dedicated to helping the brain tumour community (...)
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16 July 2026
The South West team at Gleeds Energy Limited have found an inventive way to support Brain Tumour Support while encouraging colleagues to get active and boost their wellbeing. (...)
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16 July 2026
We recently received a grant from bClear Communications to help fund one of our Men’s Support Groups. This online group, run by a male Support Professional, gives patien(...)
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