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5 min read
Sam North
One thing that almost every new patient asks us here at Releaf is:
"Do I have to tell my employer that I am a medical cannabis patient?"
The short answer is 'no', but there is a little more to it than that.
Disclosing to anyone, let alone your employer, that you are a medical cannabis patient can be understandably daunting. While the level of stigma surrounding the plant is slowly fading, there are still misconceptions and negative stereotypes associated with cannabis use, medically prescribed or not.
In today's 'New Patient' explainer, we will outline what you are legally required to disclose to your employer and offer some tips for navigating this conversation.
In the UK, most people are not legally obligated to disclose to their employer any medications they have been prescribed.
Medical cannabis is no different. It is a completely legal treatment option here in the UK, as long as a specialist doctor who is listed on the General Medical Council’s Specialist Register has prescribed it.
In the UK, disability discrimination protections cover medical conditions and prescribed medications. Under the Equality Act of 2010, employers are required to take reasonable steps to support employees at work. This includes making necessary work adjustments and safeguarding employees from harassment and discrimination.
Unless your prescribed medication affects your ability to perform your job safely and effectively, you are not obligated to disclose it to your employer - but there are a few caveats to keep in mind.
While most Releaf patients are not legally required to disclose their medical cannabis prescription to their employer, there are a few exceptions to this rule. The first thing you should do is read your employment contract so you have a full understanding of your rights and responsibilities.
You may need to tell your employer if:
If any of the above apply to you, then you may need to have a chat with your employer about your medical cannabis prescription. Not doing so may result in disciplinary action or even termination of your employment.
If you do feel that you need to have a conversation with your employer, we suggest the following:
Again, there are nuances to this answer.
It is not illegal to take medical cannabis at work, as long as it does not impair your ability to perform your job safely and effectively.
Your employer may be required to make reasonable adjustments to support your medical needs, such as providing a safe space for you to administer your medication.
Yes, most cannabis-based medications contain THC, which is screened for in workplace drug testing.
The length of time that THC stays in your system is dependent on a wide range of factors, but even if you are totally unaffected by your medical cannabis treatment at work, you may still fail a drug test.
Explore our full ‘New Patient’ blog series for answers to all the more frequently asked questions. You can also visit our full blog and education hub for in-depth insights on all things UK medical cannabis.
It is important to seek medical advice before starting any new treatments. The patient advisors at Releaf are available to provide expert advice and support. Alternatively, click here to book a consultation with one of our specialist doctors.
Get comprehensive care, convenience, and confidence with an all-in-one treatment plan.
Am I eligible?Sam North, a seasoned writer with over five years' experience and expertise in medicinal cannabis, brings clarity to complex concepts, focusing on education and informed use.
All of our articles are written by medical cannabis experts, guided by strict sourcing guidelines, and reference peer-reviewed studies and credible academic research. Our expert clinical team and compliance specialists provide valuable insights to ensure accuracy when required. Learn more in our editorial policy.
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