Use of an employment advisory service by cancer survivors

Lawlor, E. R. and Donnelly, M. (2015) Use of an employment advisory service by cancer survivors. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, 33(3), pp. 219-231. (doi: 10.1080/07347332.2015.1019658) (PMID:25761149)

Abstract

Employment issues for cancer survivors (CS) were investigated from the perspective of Northern Ireland government general employment advisors. An e-survey was designed and developed based on the results of a scoping search of journal articles, previously validated questionnaires and relevant related surveys; discussions of draft versions of the e-survey and method with lead representatives of stakeholder organizations; and a pilot study with seven prospective respondents. The e-survey and subsequent reminder to employment advisors were distributed internally by the government employment advisory agency. The e-survey was completed by 78/156 (50%) advisors, the majority of whom (74%) received a request for advice in the last year from at least one CS. Most CS used the employment service less than 1 year (52%) or 1 year or more after treatment (32%). Fatigue was the most commonly reported barrier to returning to work (10%) and staying in work (14%), and a supportive employer was the top facilitating factor in returning to (21%) and continuing in (27%), employment. Although most advisors had a positive attitude about a CS's capacity to return to work, half were uncertain about how best to advise cancer survivors.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Lawlor, Dr Emma
• Authors: Lawlor, E. R., and Donnelly, M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Journal of Psychosocial Oncology
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• ISSN: 0734-7332
• ISSN (Online): 1540-7586
• Published Online: 11 March 2015