Section 9: Fluctuating or recurring conditions

Fluctuating and recurring conditions are not specific ‘conditions’.  Instead, they are features of some health conditions and disabilities.  

What do we mean?  

A fluctuating condition is always present but may vary in severity, in frequency of flare-ups and in some conditions in symptoms. Examples include asthma, arthritis, and psoriasis. A recurring condition can be absent for long periods of time but can return periodically. For example, a person may experience episodes of depression throughout their life with long periods between episodes where they are not taking medication or require any adjustments.  

Supporting colleagues with fluctuating or recurring conditions  

For most of the time many members with such conditions manage their conditions with little impact on their ability to work. However, sometimes these conditions ‘flare up’ and members may need new or reoccurring occasional adjustments. The unpredictability of these conditions mean support is vital and having a plan of what may be required in these circumstances can be helpful to put into action quickly.  

Quick overview  

• Early action may prevent severe flare-ups and allow colleagues to remain at work.  
• Planning for flare-ups and factoring this into adjustments will help.  
• 'Just in case' adjustments are helpful.  
• Sometimes flare-ups can happen without warning so keeping agreed adjustments in place – or easily available - can help.  
• Be flexible and open to try different adjustments and practices. Revisit the discussions frequently to see what works.  

Fluctuating or recurring conditions – suggested adjustments  

• Flexible working – location, hours, breaks, start and finish time.  
• Adjusting work tasks  
• Reducing business travel to reduce fatigue.  
• Reviewing   
• Have a system of 'red days' (for flare ups) and 'green days'. Your colleague can then indicate to you quickly and easily when adjustments that aren’t always needed need to fall into place.