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I tested negative on Weds at a drive-through test. Symptoms seemingly returned after a viral bout in March. I think it's down to fatigue, but I want to highlight some of the good that I've had from my employer, and where companies can do better.
#HiddenDisabilities
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#HiddenDisabilities
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Context: My chronic conditions mean I've actually had a considerable number of sickness days this year, on top of COVID (both chronic migraines + cluster headaches cause me problems).
And yet I also feel like I'm the most productive I've ever been.
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And yet I also feel like I'm the most productive I've ever been.
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The main reason for that is that I've basically landed in an environment where I feel willing and able to take the leave I need. It still feels freeing to not have judgement from my line and work managers for taking the time I need.
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To explain the above, the HE Digital team has a work manager that manages the work for us as a whole, and then a line manager to manage our wellbeing. The exception is our testers because of how linked the work manager and testers are.
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It helps we're all in the same place, so communication is effective and works. But it helps to know what I am going to be talking about is related to one circle or the other. Going into a no context "can we talk?" meeting is my worst nightmare.
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To add to that, it has resulted in me being open about my conditions (and FWIW I was open about these at interview, and got the job anyway). There are also a number of measures afforded to me by the fact we are home working also affords me with extra things that help.
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1) If I am unwell, I have an illness exemption for migraines (and will soon have one for fatigue). It's manager's discretion, but it means I don't have additional stresses about too much time off.
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2) Paid sick leave for employees means I can take time without feeling like I am under financial pressure to come in, and means that the time I am in is more productive overall over a sprint.
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3) Flexible working hours and locations. Being able to take slightly longer lunch breaks for a walk in the sun (or failing that, a nap if things are really bad when working from home.
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If I think of any more I'll add them to this thread.If statutory sick pay of less than a month isn't law, then please consider extending paid sick leave out to a month. It helps; productivity will increase with the safety net.
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So, yeah, in summary, I'm not doing *great*, but I'm doing better because of the things I am fortunate enough to have in the workplace. More companies should consider their sickness policies and be more inclusive to those with disabilities and long term conditions.
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To clarify, I mean "if sick leave isn't 30 days or more"
