off sick from toxic workplace

la_rey
la_rey Online Community Member Posts: 1 Listener
Hello, I am new here but would really like some advice and to maybe be pointed in the right direction.

I am a civil servant and i disclosed my disability in the interview (anxiety, depression, aspergers and dyspraxia). I am very open about my disability and all my colleagues were fine with it at first... until my reasonable adjustments were put in place. since then i have been called several slurs, been told i shouldn't be working there, there has also been times where they refuse to accommodate the reasonable adjustments which means i can't do the job without hurting myself .There is a lot more too it but i think the general idea is there. I told my managers and union rep to which they both agree it is not acceptable behaviour . They wanted to have a meeting with the members of staff however due to it being nearly the whole department this is not possible. They have not openly shared any advice or ways to get this to stop. There has since been a major incident that could have risked my health which caused me to have a mental break down. I have been off for almost 8 weeks, i get regular phone calls but they aren't seeming to want to support me back at work or offer any solution to ease my anxiety.

I am at a loss of what to do. I love the job so don't want to leave it. but i can't go on like this. I am sorry for the long post but any advice is appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • MW123
    MW123 Scope Member Posts: 1,228 Championing

    Hello la_rey 

    Discrimination and harassment are not acceptable in any workplace. You mentioned you have a union representative, continue to involve them in the process. They can provide support and guidance on how to address the situation within the workplace. 

    Considering the impact on your mental health, it's important to seek support from your GP in light of the situation. Consulting with them can provide you with valuable medical documentation and support during this time. 

     If your concerns are not adequately addressed by your employer, consider filing a formal complaint with the appropriate government agency responsible for handling workplace discrimination cases.

    Most government departments have their own internal complaints procedures. Employees can raise their concerns or complaints through these procedures, usually starting with their line manager or HR department. The process typically involves escalating the complaint to higher levels of management if it remains unresolved. 

    The Civil Service Commission is an independent body responsible for upholding the principles of the civil service, including merit, fairness, and impartiality. While they primarily deal with matters related to recruitment and selection, they may also investigate complaints about the conduct of civil servants this may be worth looking into. 

    Do not feel forced to resign.  Instead, it would be more constructive for your workplace and colleagues to take proactive measures to provide additional support and assistance in order to foster a more positive and conducive work environment for you.  Take care.

     

  • Hannah_Alumni
    Hannah_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,866 Championing
    Hello @la_rey

    I am so sorry that you have been through that. I hope you have support around you? We in the community are here if you ever need to talk or vent :) 

    I echo MW123 and would encourage you to speak to your GP. If you wanted to, you could refer yourself for talking therapies.