My employer is great!

[eescvc]

I posted a few weeks ago about an adjustment proposal I put forward at work to change some of my roles and responsibilities to suit my health.

I requested to remove the photography element of my job which took up 30% of my weekly time.

Well today I was called into a meeting and now I am doing 100% desk based design work. No more photography sessions in pain for me!

I'm so happy that my company is so lovely. It's such a relief and weight off my mind. Although I am sad because before my health declined it was my favourite role.

Thought I'd update with the good news anyway!

[whisperit]

Thank you for the update, that is excellent news. You have obviously managed the situation well too. Shame about having to lose that photography bit, but maybe there will be a silver lining? You could become a leading expert in... erm...a desk-based thing? x

[eescvc in reply to whisperit]

Hopefully I can still get involved with the photography as and when my health allows but I also love the other parts of my job so it's all good!

[maye1 in reply to eescvc]

Hey - congratulations! Give the medication some time and perhaps your role will adapt but good news that you’ve found something that is easier on your health.

Any advice for others who want to switch roles? My job is physically demanding and it’s taken a toll on my health. I’ve been off work the last few weeks and feel I could go back now if it is to a less intense role. Unsure of how to approach my manager about this. Thanks

[eescvc in reply to maye1]

I wrote a detailed proposal of all of my current job roles, the time I spend on each role each week, and highlighted any that were causing problems.

I then explained in detail why each problem task affected me. I then made a detailed proposal of other roles I could do instead, making sure the amount of time would be equal to the roles I would be losing.

I had already spoken to my manager in person and they suggested I write a list of amendments so then I did so and emailed this over.

In the end I had a very detailed professional letter outlining everything. I even included relevant medical links.

[eescvc in reply to eescvc]

However I do have a really really understating employer and I was only switching a minor role really. My main job roles I still do. Good luck.

[HeKe in reply to maye1]

Does your manager have any knowledge of how Lupus affects us? I'm so aware that we can look well and feel dreadful. If not, perhaps you could give your manager some of the information leaflets from Lupus UK. Can you think of how your role could be altered to accommodate your illness? If you can offer some suggestions it might ease the conversation with your manager. Also, you could consider a phased return to work. Your doctor can suggests this on your fit to work note. By undergoing a phased return it may allow you and your manager to work out the best way forward for you. Good luck 👍

[maye1 in reply to HeKe]

Hi Heke,

I’m a nurse in a fast-paced clinic. Lots of running around. Only one nurse per shift. Most of the patients come in with a virus/infection. My doctor agrees that I need something less intense. The other option - is steroids periodically. I don’t like that solution. I love being a nurse but I can’t keep putting my health second.

I’m not sure how to alter my role or whether phasing in would help but I will think about it....either way those are great suggestions and a good way to approach the conversation with my manager.

Thanks

[HeKe in reply to maye1]

Oh my goodness! All those infections. Good luck with the conversation xx

[maye1]

Yes, your situation is different than mine - but it’s helpful hearing how you approached it. Thanks.

[Lupiknits]

Very well done! Your employer is exemplary, you approached the proposal very professionally, and they must think highly of you. I hope all goes well x