AIBu To think I can’t just walk out of hospital to suit my employer

[Blueberrydreams]

I am a carer
We are a small team of 4 caring for one lady. Her family employ us. One member of staff left six months ago and they decided not to replace her and they have no bank staff even thought it’s been recommended to them on many occasions by the agency that takes care of all the HR. She needs someone 24/7 though a day a week that is family members the staff all work around 40 hours a week.
One of the staff is on long term sick and we have been really stretched and struggling. again no move to get bank staff.

I was admitted to hospital 2 weeks ago with a bad infection. I thought I was better and went back to work last night.

The sister of the lady said how they had struggled to cope without me last week and she nearly had a breakdown.
Anyway fast forward to tonight and about 4pm collapsed in pain and am now in hospital on antibiotic drip and morphine pump.

My partner rang the sister and told her I would not be for night shift and why. The sister was lovely with my partner but then sent me a text saying I needed to come in later in the night once the hospital had controlled my pain as I am needed and she wants me in 6am at the latest to help with the morning routine
I am currently on a ward in immense pain, weeing blood and just want to ignore it or text something back rude

get well soon.

How are you?

How are you doing?

@Blueberrydreams How are you getting on? Sounds like you’ve been through it.

For what it’s worth, no that’s not how things should be run regarding your employment and sick leave. 48 hours notice- do people have crystal balls I don’t know about??

I have to say thank you though, I have just choked on my tea laughing regarding your dementors comment😂

Got a text about an hour ago saying I need to come in tomorrow or I am sacked.
Unbelievable, your employer sounds as batty as the quacking patient.

Hope you are on the mend.

Are you directly employed by the family, and have you been there more than two years? If so, you could claim unfair dismissal. If not, tell you're not sacked, you resign because of their disgraceful employment practices, and be grateful to have got these people out of your life.

Hope you are feeling better now and resolved your issues with the family 💕

The inhumanity of your employer is staggering. I hope that you are on the mend. x

Op I really hope you are ok. As I former healthcare worker I lost my job due to illness as they expect carers to be superhuman- and for pittance. Your health matters and the employer should be supporting you. You can’t be expecting to work effectively if you’re sick and on controlled drugs. Get some legal assistance you’ll be fine, and there’s plenty of care jobs about you’ll find another one. Sending love x