Feeling uncomfortable at work - not sure if I'm in the wrong

[toesfortea]

Nc as I don't want this linked to previous posts.

I work in a busy kitchen with several chefs, 4 of which are from the same country. I don't speak their language and am unable to understand any of what they are saying. All speak perfectly good English but prefer to talk together in their native language.

I'm starting to feel really excluded and uncomfortable at work. Over the course of a 8 hour shift I think I heard no more than a dozen sentences in English which were to ask me to do something for one of them.

Am I being precious or should I say something? I'm struggling with my reaction to this but it's getting to the stage I don't want to go into work.

I completely see why you're uncomfortable

but I think if you comment, it will probably cause an atmosphere. They know they are excluding you. Sorry.

What happens when you try initiating conversation with them in English?

Have you ever said something like hey guys I'm getting kinda lonely anyone want to chat in English?

I mean it's unbelievably rude of them. It would probably drive me crazy

I assume that you are in the U.K. I like Funca Munca’s suggestion. I can’t judge the other chefs too harshly though: it must get exhausting having to speak a foreign language (English) all the time, plus it’s really hard to banter in a second language. Also, speaking their own language probably helps with homesickness.