Newly Diagnosed
MS and work
It’s usually a good idea to think about the type of work you do and how having MS might affect your ability to carry on in your job before you decide to tell your boss about your diagnosis. There’s no legal requirement to tell your employer about your MS unless you work in the armed forces, or on a plane or ship (ref nd12). And you may find that MS does not interfere with what you do for many years. But you also need to consider that you shouldn’t hide information if asked directly as it can cause problems for you if this comes out later on (ref nd12).
Most employers will be very supportive of people with MS. But if you are unhappy with the reaction you get, ask your doctor or specialist MS Nurse about where to go for more advice. Telling your boss can have benefits. For example, you will be less worried about taking time off sick or for appointments. And remember you can ask your boss to keep the information confidential if you wish, so that your colleagues do not know about the diagnosis. Then it is up to you to decide if and when to tell them.