From textbooks to treatment: Navigating education challenges alongside cancer
Just because you've been diagnosed with cancer during your education doesn't mean you should be held back. Here's everything you need to know about living life alongside cancer and education
Cancer and education aren't an ideal mix, but because you’re protected by The Equalities Act 2010, your school or uni can make reasonable adjustments to support you and your education. ‘Reasonable adjustments’ just means doing things that make managing your condition alongside education easier. Find out if your school or uni has a disability service and get in touch with them as soon as possible. They can make sure you’re getting everything you need to make the most of your education as a young person with cancer. They’ll also be able to tell you if you’re entitled to any additional financial support and help you apply for it.
Being diagnosed with cancer when you’re at school or uni can feel like a massive obstacle in the way of your education. There are ways to make sure you get the right support and it’s helpful to know what your rights are.
Once you’re diagnosed with cancer, you’re protected under The Equality Act 2010, meaning you can’t be discriminated against as a result of your condition. You don’t have to tell anyone at college or university (or work for that matter) about your medical history, but if you do, it might help you get the support you need. Workplaces, schools, colleges and universities can all make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help you do your job or learn.
At University
If you’re diagnosed with cancer when you’re at university, your organisation might have a disability service that can help keep your learning on the right course. You may also be able to access a disability advisor who can help you figure out what makes studying tricky and what might help. If you need to provide evidence of your condition, they’ll be able to tell you what. Chat to your tutor to see what help your university or college offer.
At school
Much like at university, being diagnosed with cancer shouldn’t impact your opportunities to learn. Your school will be able to suggest ways they can support you with your studies as you live life alongside cancer.
It can be useful to talk to your healthcare team about how you may feel physically and mentally because of treatment. Then school will be able to figure out the best ways to support you. For example, you might need to start school later or finish earlier to manage your fatigue. Some home study may be appropriate if your immune system is compromised.
Your form teacher or head of year is often a good place to go first to have these conversations. And don’t forget to speak to your parents about what you need too.
If you’re in hospital
Talk to your team about how you might be able to continue with your school or university work. Some hospitals that specialise in treating young people have teachers on site to help you. They can keep in touch with your regular school and help you keep up if you’re in hospital for a long time. If you’re at university, your disability advisor may be able to help.
Reasonable adjustments
You may find you have more difficulties at school, college or university as a result of your cancer treatment. You might struggle with fatigue, memory problems, concentration or your mental and emotional wellbeing. Because you’re protected by The Equality Act after a cancer diagnosis, your education provider can make reasonable adjustments to support your learning. Depending on your situation, this could mean:
- Offering you more time for assignments
- Helping you plan your timetable
- Permission to record your lectures or classes
- More flexibility around attendance
- Providing ways to catch up if you miss lectures
- Offering a place to rest in case you need it
- A parking space on campus
- Support from staff if you need it
Disabled Students’ Allowance
You may be able to get Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) if you’re studying for a BA, BSc or Masters. DSA could give you money for any extra support or equipment you might need to make your study more accessible. The disability service at your university can help you apply and create a support agreement to make sure you’re getting everything you need.
Returning to uni if you take time out
Some people may be able to stay at uni while they’re going through cancer treatment. For others, cancer and education don’t work well at the same time. If you’re facing returning to uni after cancer treatment, you might feel anxious or worried about what it’ll be like. But there are things you can do to make the process more manageable:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling. Your teachers, tutors or advisors will be able to advise you on what they need from you and how they can help
- Try not to feel pressured into doing things you don’t feel like doing. If your mates are going to the pub but you don’t feel up to it, it’s important not to force yourself
- Returning to uni is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to prioritise your wellbeing so you can make the most of your return
- Try not to worry about feeling like you’re falling behind. Part of the juggle with uni and life after cancer is finding the balance that works for you. This can take time.
- Reach out to people – whether your student wellbeing officer or a disability advisor
- Remember your values and priorities may change following a cancer diagnosis. That’s OK! If you’re craving a change of direction chat to your tutor or your advisor.
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