Discrimination? Not sure

[Raspberrymojito]

Hi everyone just looking for some advice if anyone could help. I'm in the UK, and have been off work since November 2015. Basically my joints (spine and knees) swelled up badly and the pain was intense that lasted over 3 weeks. Normally I would power through but my dr signed me off at the start of November for 2 weeks. I contacted my boss after the two weeks to let them know I would be back in, and they said I am not allowed back at work until I have Occupational Health. That's fine, in my job I need reasonable adjustments even through its an office job. Had my Occupational Health and they advised me on my return to work. The day before I was due back, I text a staff member to check opening times as I heard they had changed. My boss then rang me and screamed at me down the phone, basically barring me from site and banning me from contacting any other staff members. I finally have a return to work meeting planned for this week as my boss had ignored emails from myself and my union rep. What bothers me is there is another member of staff with a long term condition who had 8 weeks off and they were allowed to return to work no questions asked. It's now the end of January and I'm only just getting decent communication from my boss. Has my boss discriminated against me because of my crohns? I feel they have as the other staff member did not have any issues, no horrible phone calls and didn't have this much resistance at returning to work. What do you guys think?

 

[ronroush7]

Sounds like it could be. Wishing you the best.

 

[old_motters]

I think you need more information. I would return to work and see how things go but keeping a diary of all events and interactions with your boss on this topic. If you ever went to HR or tribunal you will need some evidence.

btw, i am not a lawyer, if you are serioud about this i would suggest you engage one.

All the best.

 

[Absentminded]

I'm sorry you're having to deal with such unreasonable and bullying behaviour.

Definitely keep a log of any incidents etc. It's good you have a union rep who is aware of what is going on, keep them in the loop; depending on the union you're with, if necessary they could get their lawyers involved. You could also call ACAS, they're really helpful for giving unbiased advice. It may be that you could raise a grievance against your boss, if you feel it is appropriate and your workplace has a grievance and bullying policy in place.

 

[fuzzy butterfly]

I am inclined to agree. Keep notes on how your treated. Also goggle disability rights uk. Loads of info there. Best wishes

 

[Lesleytlc]

I feel for you. I'm going through the same problem but I run a business with my partner. Today I'm not well, been up through the night. I've just been told I'm running the business into the ground as I'm not going in today. What I would do to feel well today and not be lying her in pain. People can't see it so they don't think it's there.

 

[ronroush7]

I feel for you. I'm going through the same problem but I run a business with my partner. Today I'm not well, been up through the night. I've just been told I'm running the business into the ground as I'm not going in today. What I would do to feel well today and not be lying her in pain. People can't see it so they don't think it's there.

Wish the best for you.