Posted , 4 users are following.
Dear all,
I have been unwell for several weeks last year and currently off work due to sickness. Management not sympathetic and harassing me with returning to work or ? dismissal.
Is anyone out there able to provide me with some pointers please. I honestly enjoy my job in the health sector but recurrent bowel problems is making work life difficult.
Thanks for your anticipated help.
Me petite
0 likes, 3 replies
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patricia04797 me_petit
Posted
Hi
I know what you're going through, I went through the same thing myself. I was a legal secretary and I loved my job, I did my best to keep it. But over several months and after several visits to A&E instead of staying at home when I was ill, my work and I agreed I would have to leave because I couldn't guarantee that I wouldn't be off long term again. In fact, it was only high doses of steroids that kept me working. I knew that couldn't go on.
With hindsight, it was the best thing for me to do because I have been very ill with Crohn's on and off and would've been letting them down all the time. Plus, peace of mind about not having to worrying about getting to work helps.
The only problem with that obviously is the money. Over the last few years I have had a difficult time claiming benefits (ESA and PIP) but perseverence and a letter of complaint finally sorted it out.
It's not easy giving up work but, as I said, it was the best thing I could do at the time. Mind you I am nearly at retirement age now so it will be more difficult for younger people.
I hope this helps a bit and good luck with your decision.
All the best,
Pat
me_petit patricia04797
Posted
Thanks Patricia for taking time out to respond. If I was anywhere near retirement, I would not be worried but am only in my 40's with young family and a mortgage. Last year I felt like packing life up all together but I couldn't bear my children being motherless.
Thanks again and all the best.
Bong1968 me_petit
Posted
Hi Me Petite
Sorry to hear that you have been unwell for several weeks.
I find it very alarming that your employers are not at all sympathetic...
Can I ask if you have been officially diagnosed with Crohn's and, if you have, did you declare it on your application form when you applied for the job?
The reason I ask is that you may want to ask your employers to take a look at the Equality Act 2010.
I am no legal expert but believe that Crohn's, or IBD in general, may well be considered a progressive condition. Your employers should therefore take this into account before they start threatening dismissal!
I would consider that it would be your employer's responsibility to investigate this on your behalf.
It may be worth mentioning to your employers that being harassed is causing you undeserved stress which, as stress is known as a trigger for some IBDs, this will in turn will exacerbate your symptoms!
Can you ask to see your employers Occupational Health Representative?
I urge to to seek advice both from your Doctor, Specialist and Citizens Advice Bureau.
The Equality Act 2010 can be found to the gov.uk website.
I hope you get this sorted as it sounds like you enjoy your job. That's something I have never experienced! 😊
Good luck!