The ‘in-between’ stage of cancer is being overlooked - leaving employees unsupported at work, says Unum UK

• Employees report 12 days of absence due to symptoms or worry before cancer diagnosis
• One-third of employees felt isolated at work during their cancer experience
• Around 90% of cancer referrals do not lead to diagnosis, but still create uncertainty

Unum UK is highlighting a critical gap in cancer support at the ‘in-between’ stage before diagnosis - when people are waiting for answers, unsure what to do next, and often still at work.

While cancer support largely focuses on diagnosis and treatment, for many the impact is felt much earlier. Research from Reframe Cancer shows employees take an average of 12 days off work due to symptoms or worry, and a further 16 days during testing and diagnosis. One in three said they felt isolated at work during their cancer experience.

Liz Walker, Chief Operating Officer at Unum UK, said:
“The stage before diagnosis often happens while people are still trying to carry on with work, making decisions without clear direction or knowing what comes next.

Even when tests don’t turn into a diagnosis, which happens for around 9 in 10 people, the period of testing and waiting can take a real toll. When there’s a gap at the beginning, confusion and anxiety can escalate quickly.”

To help employers act early, Unum is introducing a personalised cancer navigation service for employees covered by its Group Income Protection and Group Life products. The service supports employees through the waiting period for answers, providing access to cancer navigation specialists to help them understand what’s happening and what comes next. Delivered in partnership with Reframe Cancer, a CQC-registered provider, the service provides access to structured, clinically governed support.

Professor Ben Kelly, Chief Operations Offer at Reframe Cancer, said:
“We’ve worked alongside Unum for nearly a decade, supporting people affected by cancer, and we’ve seen first-hand how challenging the period before diagnosis can be. Without the right guidance, this can quickly impact both wellbeing and performance at work. Making the right support available early can help people navigate that stage with more clarity and understanding.”

Liz added “For employers, this is an opportunity to help employees feel more in control and less distracted, and to give managers the confidence to start the conversation. This is about helping people earlier - long before treatment starts - at a stage that gets overlooked but has a real impact on people and work.”