Please or to access all these features

AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To worry about all this sick leave

28 replies

Isthismykarma · 27/08/2026 13:17

Started new job in Feb. 6 weeks in caught a stomach bug both ends so had to stay off for 2 days.
I then had a procedure at the hospital for a gynae issue in July, they said I’d be fine to go in after but I booked the whole day as AL in case of delays etc. I ended up having complications so needed the following two days off and another trip to the hospital - work agreed to let me use these days as AL too.
It’s my first period since the procedure and I completely flooded through my trousers at work yesterday so had to go home, I’ve taken today off too because it’s still heavy and I feel dizzy when I walk around, and also so I can go to the gp.
That’s three times in just over six months. When I whatsapped my manager this morning to let her know I wouldn’t be in today she’s read it and not replied so I’m shitting myself now.
I was at my last job for four years and I think I had one or maybe two absences in that time but this just feels like a string of bad luck that I’ve been unable to help!

OP posts:
Isthismykarma · 27/08/2026 18:38

MidsummerMadness91 · 27/08/2026 18:34

Sounds like they're being really good about it, Especially offering you holiday rather than counting it as sick. If I was in your position I'd go out of my way a bit to show flexibility now for a bit. If someone needs to stay late, be the first to volunteer etc. Just to show you're not a piss taker and you recognise good will flows both ways.

Yeah I’m hoping they’re being like this because my performance is good and I go in early etc so that’s outweighing the bad! I hate people who drag themselves into work and make everybody else sick but I’m afraid that will definitely be me for the next 12 months because I can’t afford to lose a job.

OP posts:
pondplants · 27/08/2026 18:52

ExpectMore · 27/08/2026 18:19

Even a semi-decent employer should be ok with this. If they’re not, at least you’re finding out their true colours so know to move on before wasting too much time with them

I agree with this - I find Mumsnet bafflingly puritanical about sick leave. Its seems like OP has currently only taken 3 days sick since February because she used annual leave for a recognised medical issue? This is not an issue.

AirborneElephant · 28/08/2026 11:32

Isthismykarma · 27/08/2026 18:38

Yeah I’m hoping they’re being like this because my performance is good and I go in early etc so that’s outweighing the bad! I hate people who drag themselves into work and make everybody else sick but I’m afraid that will definitely be me for the next 12 months because I can’t afford to lose a job.

Yeah, if you can’t WFH I’m afraid that if you can drag yourself in you probably do need to don a mask, stock up on pills and battle through at least until you have a year or so goodwill. I’m glad your boss is being ok so far. Do remember you can’t be forced into taking AL - if you want to because of the money fine but it is ok to use some sick leave.

New posts on this thread. Refresh page