Asking for Garden Leave due to discrimination

ddavis98
ddavis98 Online Community Member Posts: 4 Listener
edited June 2024 in Work

hi all, this will be a long post I imagine so I’m sorry in advance!

I have been diagnosed with;

Fibromyalgia

Autism

Ehlers Danlos syndrome

EUPD

My work area is not disability compliant currently and my OT has recommended I use a wheelchair on my bad days to remain independent. Current situation at work is that there is no wheelchair access (doors not wide enough, no ramps) and I’ll be stuck at my desk with only access to a toilet as kitchen is upstairs.
further to this comments have been made about me being “dramatic” to the point that I have been signed off with stress and fear going back to work as I’m constantly belittled and small remarks made about me and my disabilities - to the point I feel nobody believes how much my disabilities affect me!

I’ve put my notice in and have requested garden leave so that I do not have to return to work but also because a sick note will only entitle me to SSP and that won’t cover my rent - financial difficulties make me stressed which causes further issues and flare ups!

Really lost on what to do and I have a meeting with hr at 10am so can’t sleep

Comments

  • Rosie_Scope
    Rosie_Scope Posts: 5,262 Scope Online Community Coordinator

    Hi @ddavis98, sorry to read that you're going through such a stressful time with work, it doesn't sound easy. How did the meeting with HR go?

    Have you had any contact with ACAS? Sometimes they can help advise you on legal matters relating to employment, it could be worth getting in touch if you haven't already.

    https://www.acas.org.uk/

    Are you claiming any benefits at the moment? If not, it might be worth using a benefits calculator to see what you might be able to claim if you're unable to work.

    Hope you're managing to get some rest in, take it easy!

  • Scrumptious67
    Scrumptious67 Online Community Member Posts: 51 Empowering

    Hello @ddavis98 I'm so sorry you are having to go through this, it sounds like a scary time for you. I hope you managed to get the garden leave you needed.

    I can only second what Rosie_Scope has said about ACAS. They have been very helpful for me and continue to be. Are you in a Union or have any other support? It will be really helpful if you have been able to keep a note of anything that has happened if you intend to take it further (but totally understandable if you just want to move on too).

    I hope you've been able to get some rest, take care.

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