I'm having a hard time at work because I've had a couple of bouts that have meant I can't be in work. I've started managing this by being allowed to work from home the days I'm not able to be far from the loo.
But my boss has now said I'm becoming a liability... 15 days off over 12 months.
They know I have diverticular disease and chronic IBS. Is this considered a chronic condition and, as such, protected by disability legislation in the UK?
Xxx
Hi there. I sympathise I am in a similar position although I am unable to work from home. I feel like I'm not able to do the job I'm supposed to be doing. I think you will find the condition covered by the legislation. Have a look on the .gov website. Good luck and take care x
Thanks Pauline
I'll take a look at the website. Wishing you good health xxx
Hi. I can sympathise with you on that. Unfortunately I have only worked 5 days in about 6 weeks because of this horrible illness. I was only diagnosed in December after my first flare up and as I had not got over that infection I ended up in hospital again for new year complicated by septacemia!! I'm now suffering my 3rd infection in as many months. Had 2 days off and gone back today. Boss and manager are not speaking to me and a co worker suggested I leave as it is obvious that I can't cope. I am led to believe it is classed as a chronic condition but I am going to check with acas and will let you know. One thing is certain we don't need the stress of nasty bosses to exasperate a horrible condition. Xxx
That's awful, Angi!
Have you spoken with your hr department? Septicaemia is no joke and being hospitalised for diverticulitis is a result of this long term condition.
I'm speaking with my GP about it today, so will let you know what she says... Xxx
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Me again! I've spoken to my GP who said once you have diverticular disease, you have it for life. You can manage your symptoms with medicine and lifestyle choices but essentially it's covered by the Equalities Act 2010.
So - if we are concerned about our employers -we need to let the HR department know that we have this condition and then the employers have to consider reasobable steps.
If, like me, we are trying to work with our specialists to change our lifestyle choices and get the correct medication then we will be able to manage our symptoms. So it's reasonable for work to allow us the time to get back on our feet.
Hope this helps xxx
I've done the same and also spoken to acas. Same advice as you. Also suggested that I ask my employer to arrange a meeting with occupational health advisor. Unfortunately we don't have an HR dept just the managing director and a manager who are the ones giving me the silent treatment. Should be having a meeting the the MD tomorrow. Xx
So both of us have had it confirmed we're protected from discrimination by law!
Don't let the md try to bully you to leave your job, cos that in itself is against Employment Law. Do all the things acas suggests. If you've no occie health at your work, get your Gp to refer you to a dietitian and start the process of getting yourself back to good health.
As I explained to my manager, the doc said we have this for life. But, like sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis for example, we need time to find the right balance of treatment to stave off more flare ups.
Take good care of yourself Angi xxx
I've also got rheumatoid arthritis. Had to come off the meds for that as they knock out your immune system. Devil and deep blue sea springs to mind. I wont let him bully me my hubby has given me advice what to say. Hope he speaks to me tomorrow Take care xxx