ataxia and the workplace

[poolboy]

Hi everybody. I am just looking for some advice. I can't tell you what I do for a living but my ataxia does affect me at work sometimes.

I have SCA6 in a mild form , but the one thing I find is that if I am in a room where there is no natural light then it gives me headaches and makes the back of my eyes hurt.

I do work in rooms such as the above but not all of the time. I can normally manage it as well but there is one particular building where my symptons become seriously painful and make my life very uncomfortable.

I have had to take time sick today as , despite asking not to be put there, they assigned me to this particular building. In past episodes I have been told to go , in no uncertain terms, away and when I told my immediate line manager he burst out laughing and told me to start the sickness procedure.

I am going to notify HR ,tell the union and contact my neurologist. There is also plenty of other work I can do 100% so I don't need to be put into this building.

I just wondered if anyone can tell me where I stand and what the consequences could be for me under employment law.

Thank You Steve

[Cuds]

Hi Steve,

HR should be able to help you - and occupational health. You have a disability that has characteristics protected under the disability equality act. This means that your employer needs to see if reasonable adjustment can be made to the work you do in order for you to continue working in your present role or to enable you to work without exacerbating your condition - or if you could be redeployed within the workplace. Speak to HR first and check your work's policy on referral to occupational health. Your GP should be able to advise you as well.

Good luck,

Carol

[SamGH]

Good advice from Carol. But do get the union to support you as hr lean towards management support

[Marksmum]

Would have said exactly the same as Carol. You are protected. So I agree with Carol and also vet the union involved. Good luck. Keep well. Susan

[bevvick1964]

Hi

Make sure you have your backing of the union

I worked for a National charity and they mad it so difficult for me to access the building I I lost my job

Thanks to the union I got some compensation

Use the disability act in everything

Good luck xx