25min walk to work in agony - bad hips!

[LouBlo]

Hello everyone!

I’m 22 weeks pregnant and the last two/three weeks have been suffering really awfully with my hips & pelvic bone. I’m going to the doctors next week to speak with them.

I have a 30min drive then a 25min walk into work each morning, driving is becoming painful and hard enough- however the walk is unbearable each day. They do have parking however it is only given out to managers & visitors. Is there anything the doctor could say/write up to try get me a space at work?
Also concerned there will be snow soon, which my boss doesn’t take too kindly to snow days. But I will not be walking into work on the ice & snow!!

Thank you

Hi OP

Sorry you’re not feeling well, I can’t imagine driving and then walking feeling how you do! I’m pretty sure the doctor could give you a fit note discussing reasonable adjustments for you (not sure if this would cover the car parking space tho - I’ve never came across this). It would be dependant on your company being able to accomendate the request as well, if not you may have to go on the sick or work from home (If possible) until your hip improves. Does your company have Occupational Health? If your manager and yourself choose to go down this route they too, could recommend reasonable adjustments for you. Have you discussed this issue with HR or your manager? I’d probably recommend discussing it with HR to be honest, a lot of managers unfortunately walk on very touchy ground with pregnant ladies as they don’t realise we are very well protected! Also, it’s likely you may be diagnosed with something after seeing your doctor which will work even more in your favour, out of interest - have you completed a pregnancy risk assessment at work?

On another note, I’m sure you will have done this - but have you looked at alternative car parking closer to your offices? Is there anybody able to drop you off at the office from leaving your car etc? Public transport options? If you have you can use this that you’ve explored other avenues and it’s not doable. It shows you’ve been proactive and are willing to try and help yourself rather than jump straight to the ‘can I have a car parking space’ (I know you’re not but I’m thinking how some managers can jump to conclusions) it’s ideal to relay this info in your discussion with your manager or HR.

FWIW I work in HR and we recently accomedated a pregnant lady working from home as she’s suffered with a lot of issues - no fit note or OH referral needed. We’ve also told her if it’s too much, not to worry and to let us know but focus on herself and the baby. Some managers do kick quite a fuss up (to us) however they need to understand women are protected and rightly so will be focusing on their health and their babies. Any company can get temporary cover in or internal resource if needed rather than pressuring a stressed out/ill pregnant woman to work!

I too have been supported by the company as I’ve struggled with really bad sickness and I’m 25 weeks pregnant. X