Long-term health conditions can have an impact on an individual’s productivity at work, and their ability to stay in work. However, this impact can be lessened when work is designed and managed in a supportive and flexible way. This guide aims to help line managers support employees who have a long-term health condition.

With the right support, most employees can continue to work and enjoy the benefits, such as improved financial wellbeing, social connections and a sense of identity and belonging.

Your organisation can also benefit from better attendance, work engagement and reduced staff turnover. For many people, small, practical changes can often make a significant difference to how they manage their health condition and their job. 

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

Related content

CIPD Viewpoint
Employee health and wellbeing

Explore the CIPD’s point of view on health and wellbeing at work, including recommendations for employers

Factsheet
Absence management and measurement

Learn how to manage short- and long-term absence in an organisation

For Members
Guide
Supporting employees with long-term health conditions

Practical advice and guiding principles for effective support

For Members
Guide
People manager guide: Managing a return to work after long-term absence

Practical guidance to effectively manage and support an employee’s return to work after long-term sickness absence

For Members

Latest guides

Guide
People manager guide: How to tackle sexual harassment

Practical advice for managers on tackling sexual harassment in the workplace

Guide
Sexual harassment in the workplace: Guidance for people professionals

Practical advice on how to tackle sexual harassment in the workplace

For Members
Guide
Using and deploying skills effectively in the workplace

This guide offers advice on assessing skills, planning skills development and deploying and redeploying staff

For Members
Guide
People manager guide: Supporting employee resilience

Practical guidance on helping employees adapt and thrive when faced with workplace stress

For Members
All guides