Calling in sick to work-

[tots]

I have been at my job for 8 months. I work retail- this particular company is known for the high stress level, if only I read those review BEFORE I accepted the job.


Part of my "benefits package" is 6 sick days a year. I called in sick one day in 8 months. ( I didn't get a letter of thanks for not using last year's days, nor were they paid out). I had Letter from my Dr- I was cramping and bleeding- a little bothersome. Anyway- after my day away I was pulled aside- on the sales floor
for customers and anyone to hear, sick day are "given" to us but, we 're not expected to use them. They may be used for Dr spots- IF i give three weeks advance notice. I work retail- we sell denim! I can schedule regular spots for my days off or when I close and start late in the day.


My boss told me our store is a "specialty" store- we just don't use our days Really I said? We sell DENIM in an OUTLET MALL!

My question, can they really offer a benefit and tell you, you can't use them?

Thank you,
Lauren

 

[Brenden]

That's total BS in my opinion. They give us sick days for a reason. Especially if you have a doctors note explaining your condition they should give you time off no problem. I myself work in retail but luckily my manager isunderstanding of IBD and give me sick days when needed. However I dont abuse that as I most of the time I just suck it up because I need the money

 

[superzeeman]

I think that you could have a case against them if it would ever effect your job, as in dismissal. My company offers sick time and lets us use them or pays them out at the end of the year. The bad thing about paying it out at the end of the year is I have two co-workers that will come in with bubonic plague so they don't lost any sick time so it can get paid out. Gets the whole place sick at least once a year. It actually benefits the company not to have sick people there.

 

[Lisa]

Is your benefits package written down anywhere? If so, they really don't have any case to not allow you to use your time. If not, request a copy (nicely) in writing so that you are clear of when and why time may be used. I'd approach it in a way that you aren't defensive, but rather asking for information so that there isn't any issue in the future.

 

[tots]

It is written in our handbooks my boss tossed in the trash.

I am allowed to use them for myself or a sick family member. But, "they were given to us with the understanding we not use them".

I called our state agency to ask if what he said was legal, it's not. I just put in my two week notice. I have been getting calls to interview with another store and the companys much better HR wise. I just don't like people taking advantage of people.


Lauren

 

[Lisa]

Is the store a chain? It might be beneficial to others at least if the parent company is aware of this"policy"....
Our hopefully the state will follow up!

Good luck with the new position!

 

[tots]

Thank you, I love the new job!

I have filed the complaint, it will be investigated. Never smart to behave that way in front
Of others. It is a chain store and they will have to pay a fine. Hopefully they will reel this guy in!


Lauren