Call for change as young professionals lose work over MS diagnosis

A shock diagnosis is causing young Australians to lose work at the most crucial point in their careers, with experts saying employers are missing out on valuable talent.

One in five people with multiple sclerosis have lost their jobs when their condition was revealed, a shocking new report looking into treatment in the workplace for those with the neurological illness.

A landmark survey by MS Australia has revealed the harsh reality that more than a quarter (28 per cent) of those with MS were uncomfortable in the workplace because they felt people ‘labelled them’. Over half (52 per cent) said they missed out on work opportunities.

Statistics have revealed young people are losing work once they inform bosses they have been diagnosed with MS.

“This is a real concern because MS is a progressive disease often diagnosed in the 20s and 30s and most commonly in women, at a time when establishing a career and consolidating an income are important goals,” Associate Professor Desmond Graham, president MS Australia said.

The survey found just one in five (17 per cent) of those living with MS had their job description adjusted after telling their employer about their MS, only one third (32 per cent) saw physical changes made to their work environment to support them fulfilling their duties.

“Naturally we’re concerned those with MS and other health conditions are being disadvantaged but also that employers are missing out on valuable talent, at a time when skilled staff are in short supply,” Rohan Greenland, chief executive of MS Australia said.

MS is a neurological condition affecting the central nervous system. Over 25,600 Australians live with MS and 75 per cent of people diagnosed are women.

It is generally diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. It is the most common chronic neurological condition diagnosed in young adults.

Eleanor Rigden lives with MS and feels lucky to have flexible employers. Picture: Supplied

Eleanor Rigden from Brisbane is a music festival producer, who at 20 was diagnosed with MS. She was on a camping trip with friends when she experienced her first serious attack that saw her paralysed from the waist down and unable to walk.

“I am quite conscious that I am one of the lucky ones when it comes to employment and MS,” Ms Rigden said.

“As I have an employer with the capacity and the will to be flexible with how I work, what I work on, and when I work.

“I can’t predict when I’m going to have a bad day.

“If I have a fatigue attack at work and tell them I need to leave — there’s no question or guilt, they let me catch up on the hours later or even not at all — just as long as I get the job done.”