Diabetes among working individuals is not only exhausting and stressful but can also be life-threatening. Many individuals have relinquished their jobs to manage their condition safely, says Diabetes UK.
According to a new research from Diabetes UK, 1 in 6 individuals with diabetes believe that they have experienced discrimination at work by their employer owing to their medical condition. The findings also revealed that more than one third (37%) of individuals living with diabetes admitted having faced difficulties at work, whereas 7% had not disclosed their condition to the employer. One fourth of the individuals wanted time off from work to attend diabetes-related appointments and flexibility to take regular breaks for testing blood sugar or taking medication.
According to Helen Dickens, Assistant Director of Campaigns and Mobilisation at Diabetes UK, "Discrimination and difficulties come about because employers lack knowledge about diabetes and do not understand its impact.” She emphasises the need to talk a greater deal about this condition and the effect it has on an individual's life, so that workplaces can offer better understanding and flexibility to their employees.
Diabetes UK urges individuals with diabetes to be aware of their rights at work. It also advises employers to support those with diabetes in the workplace.
