jobs: just lost my job as a chef after... - Epilepsy Research...

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lozzy333422 profile image
8 Replies

just lost my job as a chef after 3years trainning and 2years working as one iv been told to re-train as something else but i dont know what jobs i can do can anyone help me please?

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lozzy333422 profile image
lozzy333422
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8 Replies
AmyBadd profile image
AmyBadd

I'm sorry that you are in this situation. I understand that it is dangerous for someone who might have seizures to work in a place with as many potential hazards as a kitchen, but surely the company you work for cannot legally sack you for your disability? I'm pretty sure that the law is that if you are found to be unsuitable for your role, they have to try to find you an alternative role before sacking you. Therefore if there are also front-of-house staff in this business, they should transfer you to that role. That would at least allow you to still have some income while you think about what you are going to do next.

Unfortunately, you have been dealt a very unlucky hand. People with epilepsy can do most jobs. I imagine that at the moment you feel like you have wasted the last 5 years of your life, but try to look at this as an opportunity. Is there anything else you have always fancied having a go at? Do you have any other hobbies you might be able to turn into a job?

Your next step should be visiting your local Job Centre. There are employees there who specialise in helping people in situations like yours to find a new job. They also might be able to advise on whether you were unlawfully treated by your previous employers.

All the best for the future,

Amy

jayzee_45 profile image
jayzee_45 in reply to AmyBadd

Don't let your employer get away with sacking you if your seizures don't affect your work they can't do anything I had a turn at work the other day first one in 5 years and they have suspended me and I will not let them get away with it I have had epilepsy for 29 years my whole working life and it's never been a factor because of the type of seizure I have I'm not putting myself or anyone else in danger a lot of companies are stuck in the past theres rules and regulations in place to protect us

lozzy333422 profile image
lozzy333422

Thank u very much for ur reply. My Dr, specialist and health adviser have said its far to dangerous and have to restudie as something else but I don't know wat to restudie as. My drs said I was to bigger health hazard to myself and others working in that industry.

msBrightside profile image
msBrightside in reply to lozzy333422

I really feel for you I studied for 2 years as a chef and towards the end of the 2nd year I had a seizure in the changing rooms and that was the end for me I couldn't continue training though my lecturer helped me manage to complete the course.

However, a few years down the line they have become more controlled. I did manage a job in a kitchen I miss it due to other illnesses I can't do it either.

Your local careers office might help or try an epilepsy charity.

If you do decide to study something else make it something else you really enjoy. I did accounts after catering and did not have the same passion. Wish I had just did music as I am doing now I really hope things get better for you. It's difficult but you'll get there you will always be a chef at heart and may enjoy cooking at home better and safer :)

lozzy333422 profile image
lozzy333422 in reply to msBrightside

Thank you for ur reply I have a meeting tomorrow to discuss my options Xx

lozzy333422 profile image
lozzy333422 in reply to msBrightside

Thank you for ur reply I have a meeting tomorrow to discuss my options Xx

msBrightside profile image
msBrightside in reply to lozzy333422

Great, hope all goes well for you best of luck Xx

gainous1 profile image
gainous1

I totally understand. I was fired because of my epilepsy and sued the company for discrimination of disability. I won the case bus the company breached the contract! I fought and fought now my time is up because they denied me. disable doesn't mean cripple. I wish you well. I'm still fighting for my rights because My case was already won but my contract was breached!