*Possibly triggering* To not want to discuss my reasons with new boss?

[troobleflooble]

I have started a new job recently, only done 2 shifts and everyone has been lovely so far. I haven't met the actual bosses/owners yet as they just haven't been in when I've been there, I had my interview and trial with the managers.

We have a work WhatsApp group for sharing rotas and work related news, I've just had a text on there saying that from tomorrow masks are mandatory for all staff on the premises at all times and if you are exempt then you need to have a discussion with the owners to get 'permission' and a badge to say you're exempt.

I am exempt as I have PTSD from being raped and choked. I'm due to do a long shift tomorrow and the thought of wearing a mask all day is already making me feel really stressed and panicked. I have an exemption lanyard.

For obvious reasons I really don't want to discuss something so personal with people I don't know and haven't even met yet. How can I tell them I can't wear a mask without telling them why? I really don't want to get in trouble already at such a new job but I absolutely cannot wear one.

Even a police officer cannot question you any further once you have stated 'I am exempt,' so there is no reason why your employer think that they have the right to interrogate you...

There is also no justification whatsoever for an employer to ask to see a GP certificate (as if GP did not have anything more urgent to do anyway...).

Simply say that you are exempt and do not wish to disclose anything further as the reason for it is a very private matter.

What they are doing is really poor practice.

@Tivermeshimbers1 yes she did. Tbh they weren't standing next to us when we were having the conversation but they weren't far away so could easily have overheard. I was shocked she didn't at least ask me to go out the back to discuss it.

@LetsHearIt unfortunately she is one of the owners so there really isn't anyone to complain to. It's clear from her demeanour and tone she didn't really believe me and it probably did sound like I was making things up because I was stuttering and stumbling over my words so much. Not surprising given the circumstances!

She also kept asking when I was getting support for it but not in a 'I can see you need help' kind of way, more like a 'you need to be 'fixed' so you can comply with the rules' kind of way. As if therapy/counselling on the NHS is so easy to get and so super effective it will solve the problem immediately 🙄