Aibu to request unpaid leave for this?

[ladyfordington]

I'm a TA in a primary school. I have a history of neurological concerns but all fine for over 10 years. Two weeks ago however, I had a first seizure. No explanation for it so GP made an urgent referral to hospital. Appt was tomorrow but school has had a number of positive covid cases over the last few days and my bubble has had to close so I've had to cancel the appointment as I'm now self-isolating.

I'm due back at work next week, my consultant has made a new appointment for me the following week (assuming I don't develop symptoms in the meantime obviously).

I'm considering asking the Head for a weeks unpaid leave next week to avoid the same thing happening again. In the last week we've had to close 5 out of 8 classes and more staff and children are testing positive daily.

I really don't want to cancel another appointment firstly because I'm concerned and secondly because until it's resolved I'm not allowed to drive.

I know they'll have to arrange cover for me though, and it's the last week of term etc.

AIBU to request it?

I would request it and honestly I would hope they would for you x

As a school.governor I would want you to ask (and be granted) the time off unpaid if you were at our school. You must prioritise your health.

Your gp has made an urgent referral so he obviously thinks it is important you are seen soon. I think you need to do what you can to make sure you can make the new date. I hope its nothing to worry about though.

You're guaranteed six weeks of leave/WFH starting soon though. So it doesn't seem necessary?

Your health comes first. It’ impacting you life in a major way and has the potential to impact your working time as well.
It’s not like postponing getting a smear until the holidays.

If you were my sons class TA I would want school to give you time off. Some things are just so important

I think it would be absolutely fine, you’re asking for it unpaid so it’s not like you’re being really cheeky. It would be different if you were trying to get a week off to jet off on holiday but it’s a medical issue.

@safariboot

You're guaranteed six weeks of leave/WFH starting soon though. So it doesn't seem necessary?

What a ridiculous comment- FFS!!!! Yes, she will also get time off at Christmas too, but what relevance is that? She has already had to cancel her appointment once. Its been classed as urgent to be seen within 2 weeks and if she cancels again, there is no guarantee that an appointment could be found during her time off!

Best of luck OP and do what is best for YOU

You absolutely anbu.

Hopefully it is nothing but actually time can be relevant in worse situation.

Yoyr health comes above a job.

Wow safariboot. Just wow.

Yanbu at all. If consultant rescheduled quickly I would make sure I attended. And I would hope manager would be supportive. Explain previous concerns and how quickly appointments have been made for you, hopefully your HT will see the urgency. Good luck