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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To have created a fuss at work?

35 replies

TenLittleSweetWrappers · 13/11/2025 06:23

I’m qualified to do a role, but intentionally took on a lesser role as it was less responsibility.
However, I’ve been asked to do a role that needs my qualification - although I’m told I’m not responsible. The role involves safety and safeguarding.

I queried this with a senior manager and he spoke to me at a time when I was extremely stressed (I do feel the responsibility for safety even though I’m told I’m not responsible) and I think I probably came across as quite rude.
He said he was going to put some strategies in place to help at the most stressful times - but the job isn’t well paid and I could easily leave and do another minimum wage job.

I do like my job - most of the time - but if a serious incident occurred, I’m not sure where I stand regarding safety.
The colleagues I work with are aware of my concern, are not qualified and have the same contract as me. I think they are anxious on the days I work as they seem unclear about my role.
I have nothing in writing, just a verbal telling that ‘I’m not considered responsible’ by senior managers.

It’s very confusing! Not sure what to do??

OP posts:
Bananaandmangosmoothie · 13/11/2025 06:54

They do this with teachers the whole time. Teacher steps down to a TA role because they want less responsibility/fewer hours/less stress. Then is still treated like a teacher but not paid like one.

If they’re using you based on a qualification or experience, they should be paying you in line with that role.

MumChp · 13/11/2025 06:51

I wouldn't do it without a contract and paid for the role.

TenLittleSweetWrappers · 13/11/2025 06:51

I’m being told that my ratio is being used but I’m not responsible in the eyes of the organisation.

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TenLittleSweetWrappers · 13/11/2025 06:49

It is a requirement that a person who holds a certain ratio is on duty. I have that ratio, but am not paid for that ratio - or contracted to use that ratio. Although it did help me to get the job.

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TenLittleSweetWrappers · 13/11/2025 06:47

I am part of a union and have asked. The union response was to say ‘claims are usually made against the organisation’s insurance rather than an individual’.

But when I read serious incidents in other similar organisations, it’s the individuals directly involved who are brought to court (the less senior) and challenged/questioned about their actions.

And I think a key question would be “why did you agree to do this role when it wasn’t in your contract?” - and I think legally I would be seen as the responsible adult (despite what the organisation tell me).
Don’t want to be too outing!

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AlertCat · 13/11/2025 06:34

In this sort of role I would certainly join a union, now, and then consult them. I wouldn’t be happy either in the situation you describe.

Medexpert · 13/11/2025 06:32

Is there a requirement for a responsible staff member to be on duty at all time? If so, is it the case? If ot is a requirement and they consider that you meet it, I would file a grievance.

WannabeMathematician · 13/11/2025 06:31

Do you want to do this?

queenofwandss · 13/11/2025 06:29

What field are you in OP? Are you in a union? I would probably seek some advice if it were me, as this sounds sketchy.

TenLittleSweetWrappers · 13/11/2025 06:27

Bear in mind that there has been a broken bone and a fracture since I started this role (one on a day that I wasn’t working).
Both incidents were considered unavoidable accidents.

OP posts: