Difference in how colleagues are being treated

[sickofbeingjudged]

One of my colleagues was sent home this week due to period cramps and feeling unwell.

I’ve mentioned to my manager that I feel really unwell - my period, I think I’ve got a mild flu, I’m exhausted and really lightheaded. I was told to get a drink of water and crack on. AIBU to think this is unfair?

Presumably your colleague chose to go home. Adults aren't "sent" from work. If you were feeling unwell and felt you needed to go home, then you should have gone.

Well it kind of seems it on the surface. But you don't know their exact illness, their responsibilities on that day, how many other staff were off etc.

The alternative could be that the manager just never allowed anyone to go off sick. Which would be even worse! And obviously illegal.

Ultimately though if you say you're too ill to carry on working I don't see how they can force you to stay?

They can't fire someone for being unwell on one occasion? So you should've just said sorry I've tried that and I feel dreadful so I'm going. Presuming it wouldn't mean the business had to close for the day. But even then if you are too ill then you are too ill.