If you are a teacher with lupus, have you received any type of special accomodation such as no break duties or flexible schedule?

[monpe]

I am trying to find out how the management of a school accomodate their teachers if they have lupus. Meaning the person can work but it helps to do less of the administrative work in order to just cope with the teaching.

[Chantelle]

Hi xxx

I work in school and I am a Governor. The best thing to do is either approach the school, ask at the school office, about their disability policy or approach the Governing body if you would rather. You can also contact the Local Authority, as most schools adopt their La policies, and they will also be able to tell you what they have in place and how they can help.

Hope some of that was helpful and good luck!

Chantelle xxx

[charm81]

Hi,

I'm a teacher but currently on long-term sick. My school was very accommodating, but I was very clear on my needs at interview. I was omitted from break duties and wasn't responsible for a form group until I was at the school for a few months.

In line with the DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) reasonable adjustments have to be made. You may be also able to get advice from the charity Access to Work.

All the best

[AlisonM]

I'm a full time teacher in Scotland. My school's management team have been very understanding n supportive. They went through my whole diagnosis with me! We have 2.5 hours non contact time for preparation n correction etc n mine had either been in a whole block, or last in day/ start of day to allow me to go home n sleep/ have a long lie. I don't do it all the time, or take advantage but I use it when essential!!

Don't think you'd be able to do less admin- its part of the job nowadays, but I'm sure they would be supportive. If you don't ask- you don't get!!

Lupus doesn't automatically fall under disability- only your symptoms can be a disability, depending on their severity!!!

Good luck xxx

[monpe]

Thank you all of you have been very helpful!!

[emtsilly]

I've been teaching full time since 1996 and was diagnosed in July last year after just 6 weeks of symptoms. My school have been very helpful, the most difficult thing is for me to stop volunteering and working stupid hours. I am just home but did spend most of the weekend sleeping and don't have much of a life outside work in term time. Prior preparation and planning is the key but helpful friends and an understanding family helps. I know I give alot and that my colleagues know I do what I can, when I can. They've been great but then I've been fortunate to get quick diagnosis, treatment and little time out needed for appointments. I do feel so fortunate, only hope I can keep it up.

ps. My home is a mess and I have no love life!!! they are next on my list