CANCER IS A TRADE UNION ISSUE

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: september/october 2026 :: RMTnews 23 Cancer at the point of diagnosis is covered by the protected characteristic of the Disability, Equality Act 2010. Some people with a Cancer diagnosis choose to work if they can, stating that having the choice was vital during their treatment as they felt that many decisions in their life had been taken out of their hands and handed over to specialists. However, the union has received reports that there are a growing number of members reporting to reps that they are being refused an extension of the full pay part to the company sick pay scheme during cancer treatment. These members feel that they are being forced back into the workplace whilst still undergoing cancer treatment. Choice is not afforded to these members once the company sick pay scheme is reduced to half pay. With the current cost of living crisis whilst workers are already financially squeezed to the limit, our members must also manage the financial burden having cancer brings, cost of hospital taxi journeys, cost of parking, cost of a change of products in the home, a change to personal products recommended to reduce risk or symptoms, reduction in household income if household member takes time off to attend appointments and give care, for example. In the transport industry there are potential risks from exposures to asbestos in premises and rolling stock, respirable crystalline silica in ballast dust and from cutting or grinding concrete, and diesel engine exhaust emissions. Transport workers are exposed to cancer causing carcinogens. RMT will continue to negotiate workplace policies for workers to include full pay until at least the end of cancer treatment for those who do not feel that a return to the workplace during cancer treatment is beneficial to their wellbeing, and for sick pay schemes for transport workers who currently are only receiving statutory sick pay. Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) has stood firmly behind rail workers and their families for over 165 years. Founded by railway workers themselves, the charity was built on a simple but powerful principle: that workmates should look after one another in times of need. Last year, the charity paid out almost a quarter of a million pounds to railway families in need, helping with everything from council tax and rent to funeral costs, children’s clothing and white goods. There is also debt advice and practical support for those navigating difficult times, as well as the Check in and Chat service, which keeps retirees connected. As a trustee, I’ve seen this work first-hand and the staff and volunteers who give so much of themselves. The difference they make, quietly and consistently, is remarkable. To keep making that difference, RBF has launched the Railway Lottery. It’s a weekly lottery giving supporters the chance to win a £25,000 jackpot, while knowing that 50p from every £1 ticket goes directly to the charity. A small contribution that adds up to something much bigger for the people who need it. Join me and support the Railway Lottery by using the QR code. CANCER IS A TRADE UNION ISSUE Having cancer can make it difficult for people to earn a living TRY THE RBF LOTTERY Railway Benefit Fund trustee Mick Cash launches the ‘Railway Lottery’