I am after some advice for a very dear friend who is having an awful time at work. Her working conditions have deteriorated over the last two years to the point where her role is becoming difficult to manage. Her personal problems which are discussed in private with the directors are discussed in earshot of all her colleagues. I could write a whole essay on what has gone on.
She recently went to the doctors as she was feeling very down. The doctor asked about work and was told about everything that was going on. The doctor wanted to sign her off with work stress for two weeks and reassess after as to whether she should have more time. She declined to be signed off as she was worried she wouldn't have a job to go back to. All of this was discussed with her line manager so they are aware of the pressure being placed on her.
As she declined being signed off the Doctor recommended that she attends a group counselling session to help her. She has signed up to these and has just started. Unfortunately the sessions take place in the afternoons. So she spoke again with her line manager, who having spoke with the directors, has informed her these sessions have to be taken as holiday. So she works through her lunch (5.5hrs without a break) leaves mid afternoon for the sessions and has to take the remaining 1.5 hrs out of her holiday entitlement. I think the course is for ten weeks.
Can they do this? Her counsellor has said that the stress is work related and they are aware at work but have made no efforts to improve her situation. She has always had to give up her lunch hour if she has doctors or dentist, whereas everyone else is given an hour for medical appointments. We also had two members of staff off long term sick who were on full pay the entire time. She feels they are trying to push her out, and having left myself due to low level bullying I can't feel but agree with her.