Trouble with equality

[steveshawx]

Anybody in the UK forum have problems with their employer in terms of equality and inclusion? I'm interested to hear how people cope with getting around their workplaces and enduring a days work whilst having CMT.

[Exhausted101]

You should be protected under the 2010 Equality Act in terms of the condition. I can only comment on my own experience which I suppose is an example of an employer with reasonably decent employment practices. My CMT was complicated by other symptoms which turned out to be thyroid related and then Sjogrens, the diagnosis for which was a long time in coming.

In the beginning I was able to work from home on days where I was too fatigued to actually get through the morning activities to get to work. Over a long period of time it became obvious (to me, never mind my employer) that I just couldn't manage a 5 day week - a 40 hour week just left me exhausted and completely horizontal at the weekend, so I voluntarily reduced my hours by 20%. This was agreed with HR as was my new working pattern of Mon-Tues, off Weds, and in Thurs-Fri. I considered working 5 shorter days but I really need that day in the middle to recharge. I was also lucky enough due to a combination of circumstances and a supportive local manager to be allocated a parking space (which in a city centre office is worth its space in gold).

I've had desk and equipment assessments which resulted in a better quality desk chair and light weight mouse; and also environmental assessments to assess my desk location to the kitchen, toilets and exits and a space to park my wheelchair/walker when not in use. My job was already fairly sedentary so the actual job itself didnt need much tweaking. There were some things it had to be stated that I just couldnt do because they required being on my feet or walking distances.

In terms of getting through the day, aside from accommodations of a comfy seat and a change in hours if possible (even a later start if you think it work for you), I would suggest (if you are office/home based) move around regularly - believe me it helps, don't overdo the caffeine, I drink very few caffeinated drinks as the boost/crash cycle really affects my mobility which is lousy at the best of times and try to eat regularly and lightly. Lastly, try not to get stressed....!

I've cut the story short but the above is the bare bones - this was over a 5 year period, I work in the private sector and in the office environment and my office building is already relatively accessible.

Hope that gives you some pointers

Regards

[steveshawx in reply to Exhausted101]

Thanks for the reply Exhausted 101 - I'm fully au-fait with the equality act of 2010, and yes, I am protected! My employer should have practiced what it preaches, but alas......I'm more interested in other peoples stories rather then how I deal with my issues so a relative comparison is seen. It's pleasing to read that your employer has implemented what it deems as (and seems) good reasonable adjustments. My condition has changed, I've had it a good 55 years (all my life) and am fully aware of it's debilitation / my limitations. Be well and work as much as you can - it is good for you both financially / mentally.

[Exhausted101 in reply to steveshawx]

I realised, (after sending my response) after looking at your profile that your job title meant that you were probably well aware of the Act etc, but too late....

I have to admit that my employer does what it should - however being of a cynical disposition I'm also aware that it does the bare minimum (and gets very twitchy if it thinks there has to be any financial outlay). Having said that, the gift of the car parking space and since I'm relatively stable at the moment I can cope with the shortcomings means that I can't complain too much.

Fingers crossed that state of affairs continues and I dont have to test the extent of HRs professionalism too far!

[steveshawx in reply to Exhausted101]

absolutely! Remember that Access to Work can and will provide financial / practical assistance as necessary. Your employer doesn't have to outlay for everything.