Aibu with my old manager?

[Gracelou13]

Hi!
So I’ll try and put this in a nutshell…
At the start of June I moved to a new area and started a new job. Before starting this job I had an interview for a job I really wanted, but I was unsuccessful. 3 days into my new job the one I really wanted contacted me and told me the job offer had fell through with the candidate they offered it to, and they offered it to me (second choice is better than no choice at all I guess haha). They wanted me to start immediately and I felt awful, but I explained this to my current job and told them I would be resigning with immediate effect. My contract there stated that within my first month of employment I did not have to give a notice period, so I was within my rights to do so.

My old job asked me to return my uniform (which was a very well worn polo shirt that they had managed to dig out for me) and I told them I would return it within the next week, however I completely forgot. Then when pay day rolled around, I didn’t get paid a penny from them but I just let it go. However for the 3 ten hour shifts I did I should have been paid over £300 minus tax.

Flash forward to now which is nearly 2 months since I left, I’ve received a very snotty text from my old manager stating how unreasonable I am for not returning my uniform to them, and asking if she would prefer she turns up to my house to collect it since I haven’t brought it in. She also said it needs to be returned by the end of the week, and that she does not feel this is unreasonable considering it is their property and I have withheld it, and considering they were so reasonable accommodating my early departure.

Like I said, I did completely forget about the uniform, but a simple follow up message asking me when I’m returning it would have made me apologise and bring it in asap, so I’m not sure why I am getting a message like this 2 months later.

I know that legally I was entitled to be paid for the 3 days I worked but I did not. My question is, would it be unreasonable if I messaged back saying that I will return the uniform if/when I am paid?

Thanks! Sorry for the long post lol

The two things (the uniform and the pay) are entirely unrelated. Don’t go tit for tat on it or stoop to their level, but do push to be paid.

Reply and tell them that you’ll return their top, and ask when your pay will be paid into your account, sending over your bank details again. If they ignore or say you won’t be paid, do chase and remind them. That’s your money and you should be paid it.

Yes, as dreamers says. So tempting to reply back in a similar vein, but keep it professional.

Not sure why you didn't press for the pay at the time. Of course they need to pay this, likewise if they really want a manky 2nd hand top then you should return it.

I don't understand why you wouldn't chase up your missing pay? And when they didn't pay you, didn't that trigger a reminder that you have some of their property to return?

Bloody hell get your pay sorted! The top just drop it in. Phone payroll on Monday

Return the top and separately, an expectation on when you expect to have your outstanding wages.

Keep it professional.

Its 2 issues
The uniform (new) would be less than what you are due, so you suffer a financially if you dont get paid

I would return the top and hand over a letter requesting that they pay over your wages.

Hi, thanks for getting in touch. I’ve been meaning to ask you about my pay for the three days I worked. When will I receive this? Happy to return the uniform at the same time. Thanks”