Skilled worker visa requires me to work full time. I'm currently doing a phased return to work after treatment but struggling with fatigue and recovery

Hi, 

I’ve been in the UK on a skilled worker visa for about two years. I work in the NHS. I was diagnosed with synchronous endometrial and ovarian carcinoma in November 2024. I’ve completed surgery and brachytherapy, and I currently have no evidence of disease. I feel like I should be getting back to normal life, but I’m struggling so much with fatigue and difficult surgical menopause symptoms. I’ve started a phased return to work, which is what I want, but I’m finding it hard. I’m doing three days a week right now and I barely make through the work day. If I close my eyes, I could fall asleep at my desk. I’ve been getting frequent headaches. I also have all the fun menopause stuff to cope with: frequent and urgent bladder/bowel symptoms, hot and cold flushes throughout the day, mood changes and lots of tears, and changes in memory/cognition. I can’t imagine how I will have the energy and perseverance to get back to full time work, but that’s a requirement of my visa. I know I have rights under the Equality Act to reasonable adjustments at work, but I don’t know if there is any leeway from the Home Office in regard to visa requirements. I love my job and want to work, but I’m quite worried about managing and how that will impact my future. I’m not sure where to go to get the information I need. 

  • Hello Mayhee

    I'm sorry to hear about all that you've been through. It's clearly been a difficult time through treatment, and understandable that you're struggling now that you're returning to work. Factor into that the concerns you've raised about your visa, and naturally, you're worried. 

    I'm afraid the Visa issue isn't one that we have any information about. You could contact your local Citizens Advice, who may be able to help you seek legal advice. Alternatively, you might want to speak with an immigration adviser yourself. You can find out more information about that on the Gov.UK website. 

    Do make sure you talk with your HR department about how you're coping. There is some information available for employers on this website which might be helpful for you to read through as well. 

    I do hope that you continue to recover from treatment and that, hopefully, you can get the answers and reassurance you need regarding your visa. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator