Healthcare company Merck Serono has outlined a number of measures it will be implementing to make it easier for staff with multiple sclerosis (MS) to remain in their pharmaceutical jobs.
The drug developer has committed to introducing new employment practices across Europe that will guarantee workers access to flexible hours, adaptive office environments and home working options.
This announcement comes during the same week that the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation held World MS Day, with this year's theme being the role played by employers in helping MS patients to remain in work.
A poll commissioned by Merck Serono to tie in with the event suggests that 80 per cent of MS sufferers feel they need more support from their bosses if employment is to remain a viable option.
Dietmar Eidens, head of global human resources at Merck Serono, said: "We look forward to other companies joining us in our commitment and addressing multiple sclerosis at work."
The firm is responsible for a number of established and forthcoming MS treatments, including Rebif, RebiSmart and Cladribine Tablets.