Employment issues

[LtAngua52]

Hi all. I've returned to work after being off for about 8 weeks due to 3 slipped discs, trapped nerves and tears. I've been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.

I've identified that one day of my full-time job, exacerbates and may accelerate the condition as it demands a lot more physical activity. My GP has provided a fit note that states I can return to work with adaptations and reduced hours and less walking. I requested a day less, the day that demands this extra physical activity and they have denied it. Said. I must do it because that's part of the job. I'm going to appeal and highlight the Equality Act about employers and reasonable adjustments. It says this includes avoiding certain tasks and possibly a job redesign.

Anyone have any advice for me please?

Many thanks 😊

[Met00]

Sorry to hear about all your back pain. You have my sympathy as I know how I struggled to return to work following just one slipped disc. You probably need to speak to an expert in employment law. Although the law requires employers to make reasonable adjustments, I think if you can't actually do the job, they may be entitled to end your contract.

[LtAngua52 in reply to Met00]

Thank you 😊 I've read around the Equality Act and written an appeal using that legislation. See what happens! I'm doing the work though, just need the adjustments I requested. I hope they listen but a specialist in employment law would definitely be useful!

[Posy-White in reply to LtAngua52]

Hello LtAngua52

Sorry to read about your issues. Any opportunities to do a job share? You'll probablly have to find your peer worker and I'm guessing the level of skills needed will not be easy just to find.

Have you tried asking your employer what suggestions they have so that you can work in a safe way to meet you health needs? Tell them you will go for an Occuptional Health Assessment if that is what they require, that is an independent health assessment - big employers such as Councils, School, Banks etc. buy into this, but if a small business hasn't got this service they really need to work something out with you their employee.

Good luck in sorting something workable out.

Posy White

[LtAngua52 in reply to Posy-White]

Thank you 😊 I've submitted an appeal today as in a meeting I was told emphatically no to my request again! I've given them so many solutions but they're stubborly refusing to consider them. It's like they don't want to give in at all. I've already had an OH assessment but they dismissed the recommendation because it's what I requested!

[ROSModerator Partner]

Thanks LtAngua52 for seeking help on this topic. We're sorry to hear you've been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease. VersusArthritis (versusarthritis.org/) / versusarthritis.org/policy/... have lots of information on employment. We have a webpage and factsheet with some useful organisations included - theros.org.uk/information-a....

[LtAngua52 in reply to ROSModerator]

Thank you 😊 I will definitely read through them. I've submitted my appeal but it makes me feel extremely nervous and a bit sick! I was told that I could get a scooter to help me get around so I don’t need them to make any adjustments!