As a trade publication, we at Pensions Age rely on industry experts generously lending us their time and insight. And whilst we may seem intently in search of that all-important next scoop, we know that genuine and open conversations are the best way to understand the core issues impacting the pensions industry.

Sometimes those issues will be specific to pensions, and other times, it will be an issue that simply requires the insight of an employer. A recent feature I worked on looked to highlight the stigma that continues to surround cancer, and working while affected by cancer in particular.

I was initially somewhat doubtful that this stigma still persists, but as company after company told me that they were uncomfortable speaking on this issue, I quickly realised my naivety. And whilst this may be an uncomfortable topic from a human perspective, there really should be no reason for any firm not to be able to respond from an employer perspective.

Those that did contribute were keen to highlight their good efforts in this area, and it was great to see those in the industry taking the responsibility to their staff seriously. But I can’t help but be disappointed that others were still so trepidatious.

Conversations around these issues can be challenging for a multitude of reasons, but it’s important to remember that the many organisations making up the pensions industry are also employers themselves.

If companies avoid taking a ‘do as I say not as I do’ approach, and instead look to lead by example, there will be much less chance to be caught out once attentions turn inward.

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