AIBU - only one without a desk

[Nurse1980]

Hi,

I recently returned to work following an episode of sickness.

We all had our own desk in the office (including myself). I’ve come back, and a six month temporary member of staff is now at the desk that was mine.

So Im having to use a laptop and sit at a filing cabinet, as I’ve no desk. I’m also disadvantaged as our job is much easier with two screens (all desks have two screens).

I’ve brought it up with my manager and was told that she was working on it.

I’m not sure if I’m overreacting (been off with stress and PTSD) and just finished my phased return. So I’m more sensitive than normal perhaps?

No problem 😀

Sorry I haven't read through everything, but my 1st thoughts would be...are they pushing you out?
That is a totally unacceptable situation. I Hope you find a solution soon.

Well done OP
I hope that things settle down now for you

I wouldn't do any work until they have me a proper desk
Your manager is being deliberately difficult

You need to involve HR, and quickly. Using a computer on a filing cabinet is totally unacceptable and your manager should be sorting it out as a priority. You mentioned that you had a phased return after sickness - was this the set up during that process, and what, if anything, was discussed about finding a proper workstation within a reasonable time frame ?

Do you have a condition which would meet the requirements to be treated as a disability under the Equality Act ? If so HR need to be involved and your manager needs to be made aware of their responsibility to make sure you have everything you need to do your job. It also gives you the right of protected characteristics if you have less than two years service. If this goes on for any length of time, or impacts your performance in any way then they’re sailing very close to the wind on constructive dismissal - making it so difficult for you to do your job that you quit, or impacting your performance to the point where they start disciplinary procedures. Link to a summary of your rights under the Equality Act 2010 is below.

https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/advice-and-guidance/your-rights-under-equality-act-2010

You’re not hot desking though! When hot desking you get a desk to work at, you’ve not even got that! I speak to HR first thing Monday, this is unacceptable.

The OP’s condition would have to meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010. If she has more than two years service she would already have the right to bring a claim - if not it would depend on whether she has the right to protected characteristics under the Act.

Sorry to hear this and what you are going through.
Your employer’s behaviour is beyond belief, incredibly unsupportive, unempathetic, contrary to health & safety and in no way provides you with a reasonable workspace. In addition, I’d argue this is discriminatory behaviour to an employee for has been unwell (due to mental health! Jesus, it’s dreadful)

Been there, it really sucks