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Original poster

can't stop blubbering and it's all about work again.....rant alert :(

58 replies

Galaxy · 27/09/2004 11:19

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MTS · 28/09/2004 12:07

Would also suggest if Galaxy goes down the tribunal route, it is better for her to get sacked than to walk out. Tribunals are more sympathetic to those who have been sacked. Are there any "family friendly" policies in her company that could be a stick for her to beat them with.

As her t & c say that Galaxy is based from home, that IMHO is somewhat different from saying that she will always be in London.

coppertop · 28/09/2004 12:09

My memory of employment law is pretty hazy but I would imagine that if Galaxy would have to spend several nights away from home then this would not be construed as being based at home - which is what her contract states she should be.

Marina · 28/09/2004 12:09

Just caught up with this. Huge sympathies Galaxy, definitely recommend a union as they have wonderful advisers to call on when the chips are down (and you can get free legal advice too).

LunarSea · 28/09/2004 14:28

If it's in your contract in writing (or even if it isn't but it's established by custom and practice) then they legally can't just change that contract at will.

See here for more about constructive dismissal.

I think if you could go in quoting the relevant legislation, and the words "constructive dismissal" and "employment tribunal" they may well back off. They are probably not actually sure of the legal situation and are trying it on hoping that you'll not know any better than to accept it.

If it comes down to a tribunal in the end - see here

Agree with the others though - employment lawyer/CAB, and doctor (in whichever order you feel appropriate).

littlemissbossy · 28/09/2004 14:32

Galaxy, I was just checking up on this thread and saw the message from essbee, sorry that this situation is going from bad to worse. IMO follow what everyone else has said, you really need to see an employment lawyer.
Alternatively, you could contact ACAS for free confidential employment advice www.acas.co.uk or look at the department of trade and industry website that also has employment law information www.dti.gov.uk
HTH

WideWebWitch · 28/09/2004 20:32

Galaxy, so sorry to hear this, no advice really but it sounds awful.

pixiefish · 28/09/2004 20:38

Isn't sis really good at this sort of thing? Or is that more health and safety?

Original poster
Galaxy · 28/09/2004 22:19

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Skate · 28/09/2004 22:22

Galaxy - so sorry, this is a nightmare. You do need to see someone to help you re employment law but even so, I stand by my earlier suggestion of getting yourself signed off work for a bit (with stress) so you can get your head round it all. I don't see how you can while you are in the thick of it, iyswim.

Hugs to you.

Skate

essbee · 28/09/2004 22:26

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lydialemon · 28/09/2004 22:33

Just seen this thread Galaxy, nothing constructive to say but just wanted to add a , an to your bosses and a {{{hug}}} to you.

tiredemma · 29/09/2004 11:09

sorry galaxy, i have nothing really helpful to add, just wanted to offer some support in the form of a (((hug))).
can you not quote the new flexible working benefit for parents with younf children? there is a example of a letter on the dept for work and pensions site.
hope you find a solution x

Original poster
Galaxy · 30/09/2004 15:15

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CountessDracula · 30/09/2004 15:27

Galaxy I really think you need to escalate this issue to your boss's boss. He doesn't sound like he is handling it in a sensitive or even reasonable way. There should have been consultation with you before your t&cs were changed for starters.

I think you should write down a list of all the options that would be acceptable to you eg

  1. Continue to work at home
  2. Commute to the City and have shorter working day to allow for long journey

etc

Then go armed with these to your boss's boss (request a meeting and tell him in advance what it's about). Tell him that what they are doing is tantamount to constructive dismissal, ie they are making your position with the company untenable.

You could also try bringing into play the new working parent's legislation about flexible working, citing you being able to work at home when not on client sites as a solution that would not adversly affect their business but would enable you to continue working for them.

I would consult an employment lawyer prior to the meeting if you can. They will quickly be able to advise you of the best tactics.

Finally, START LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB!!

Sorry you are having this mare, I really feel for you as I have been in similarish situations before.

littlemissbossy · 30/09/2004 15:45

Hi Galaxy, thanks for the updates, I've just been catching up. You could (I am most sure) go for constructive dismissal - I'll have a chat with my brother for you - he's a HR Director - not in the motor trade don't worry!! And I'll update you later. HTH

MTS · 30/09/2004 15:50

galaxy - couldn't you go off sick with a tummy bug/period pains/back ache - something nicely non-specific/non-stress related for a few dayst o give you time to think things through/speak to a lawyer

agree with CD that your manager is not behaving appropriately

Original poster
Galaxy · 30/09/2004 20:42

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Original poster
Galaxy · 30/09/2004 20:43

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MUMINAMILLION · 30/09/2004 21:08

Galaxy - that fighting spirit is exactly what will help you through this. Good for you! All the best for the interviews, and for getting your sales manager what he deserves, hopefully. Lots of hugs.

Original poster
Galaxy · 03/10/2004 20:56

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marthamoo · 03/10/2004 21:33

Galaxy, hadn't seen this (though have missed you being around MN - can see now why you haven't been though!) You poor thing (((HUGS))) Your boss sounds a complete and utter nobwank (am I allowed to say that? I don't care)

I have not a thing to offer by way of practical advice but I just wanted to offer my sympathy - you shouldn't have to put up with this crap. Find yourself a new job where they appreciate you - best of luck, hon xx

Original poster
Galaxy · 22/10/2004 18:35

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helenmc · 22/10/2004 21:30

Hi Galaxy, dunno what to say but try not to worry about things over the weekend. Hugs to you & your family.

serenequeen · 22/10/2004 21:49

good luck, galaxy. hope there is some way you can turn this to your advantage.

bran · 22/10/2004 21:52

Awww Galaxy, you're such a valuable employee, always doing your best under such difficult circumstance. It's such a pity they can't be a bit more supportive of you. Hope something comes up soon.