Diabetes and employment

Diabetes does not have to make a difference to your work. To prove this to your employer your diabetes will need to be well controlled and you must be able to adjust your treatment to fit your working life. You may find you need specific advice in relation to your particular job.

Discrimination in the workplace

Unfortunately there is still discrimination in the workplace based on prejudice and lack of information. People with disabilities can be helped by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA). This makes it illegal for employers to treat people with disabilities differently from other employees. Although most people with diabetes do not consider themselves as disabled, diabetes is covered under the Act. If you feel you are being discriminated against, you should contact your union, phone Diabetes UK Careline or contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).

Applying for a job

If there is a health section on an application form, you should state that you have diabetes. You might like to put ‘well controlled diabetes’ if this is appropriate. It is important to be honest with your employers in your form and at the interview, emphasise the positive aspects such as having to be aware of time, following a healthy lifestyle and keeping to a regular routine.

Jobs where recruitment restrictions may apply include

• Armed Forces,
• Airline Pilot,
• Cabin Crew with most airlines,
• Any job requiring a Group II Driving License,
• Working offshore including work for big cruise liners,
• Train driving,
• Cab or taxi licenses – local practice varies.

In some of the occupations listed above, if you were already employed when you developed diabetes, it is sometimes possible to continue. It is important to check if you are changing from tablets to insulin. If you have been diagnosed while you are still at work, let your manager and human resources department know. You may need to take time off work, try to keep them informed of your progress. Tell your colleagues at work as it is easier if people understand what has happened to you and they will give you support.

Discuss any employment concerns you have with your GP or diabetes specialist nurse.