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Lockdown 2021 - Childcare - Husband Work

HanP
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Hi,

I was diagnosed end of Sept with Breast Cancer. I had surgery end of Oct. Am starting chemotherapy next week. 
Firstly, I am absolutely terrified of having such a low immune system in the middle of this awful gobal pandemic. 
Secondly, and the most important query, I have a very handsome 8 year old son. He has Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy and Autism. The Chemo Unit advised us not to send him to his Special Needs School as the Covid figures in our are extremely high and that would be too risky for myself. My son will be homeschooling and having some Personal Assistants in to help him and provide respite for us. 
My husband was today furloughed, which I think is great. He'll be around to help with our son. Though, his work has said that he may be called back at a drop of a hat. He's requested to be furloughed long-term and explained our circumstances. The CEO has said no! He can't have him off for months on end. 
Who is now supposed to look after our son, when my husband  gets called back to work? We only have 19hrs of PA support for him. I am usually the main carer for him. 
Obviously, I do not know how I'm going to be feeling on chemo. But I'm expecting that I'm not going to be feeling great. 
Can my husband take long-term unpaid leave and then claim Universal Credits? We need some kind of income to pay the bills. 
This whole thing is just stressing me out. We have no family nearby that can help. 

  • Hello HanP

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope that by now you are recovered from your surgery. 

    I know that many people will understand your concerns about starting chemotherapy during the pandemic. It is something that lots of patients will have been anxious about during the past 10 months. We've some information about cancer treatment and Covid on our website which may be of help but if you'd like to talk to our nurses about your concerns then you're welcome to give them a call. they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    With regards to your husband's work situation and finances, it may be worth giving the Macmillan financial guidance team a call. They may be able to offer some advice about benefits etc. I'd also suggest your husband speak to the HR department in the company that he works for to discuss what options may be available such as part time or flexible working. It may also be worth having a look through this section of the Macmillan website. 

    I hope that all goes smoothly next week. We know that this is a very difficult time for many people with having to juggle many things on top of treatment. You're welcome to post here and keep in touch. I'm sure the community will do their best to offer you some support through the weeks and months ahead. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    sorry to hear this is happening to you and your family.  I see that Jenn has suggested contacting Macmillan, they are very good and clear.  Also wondering if the school has any suggestions for support for you in homeschooling your child.  I can well appreciate your concerns about having treatment at this difficult time.You may also find your local Citizens Advice useful. and failing that, children's services at your local authority.  Wishing you all the very best, and hope the situation becomes less demanding on you.

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