legalities of job specifications

Julieboo

Hi,
Wondered if anyone can help,
I'm about to go off sick with stress caused by particular work related stress but wanted to check out the legality of something. I have worked in the same place for a number of years but have recently switched to a different post. I applied for a 'better position' at the same place but was 'advised at the actual interview that there was another position, all applicants were handed a v.brief sheet outlining the other role, very brief details. I knew from prior conversations that the management wanted me(if succesful) to think about taking this role. In the actual interview I was aked would i accept the other role if unsuccesful in th erole I applied for, well a jobs a job and I said yes and of course then I was offered this role (which I didn't really want).
So I started the job and needless to say it is the worst thing I ever did. The thing is there is no support, no guidelines as to what is expected and when you question the management they shrug there shoulders and expect you to get on with it. I am also expected to do a higher level management role for which another member of staff gets the job title, thanks and I get dumped on big time, but because of 'political' situations in the department and 'close' working realtionships with this person, if I complained work would be even more unbearable.

Anyway, I'm about to go off on sick leave to think about my position and what action to take. My question is, I never received an actual job sepcification outlining roles/duties with this particular role, only a standard contract which really does not apply to this role. I did ask personell for copy but they only referred me back to the job I applied for spec-didn't seem to have one for the job offered. Is it a legality that when starting any new employment you have to have a full job spec? I have voiced my unhappiness in the role but no real change has yet materialised.

I also know it is not just me who feels this way as 3-4 people have left and around 3 other people are currently off on long term sick.
Does anyone have any experience of this or advice?

Ta

Fran

They have to given you written terms and conditions which would include that info within I think 3 months. Have a look at the acas. If there's a few of you in the same position why don't you go as a group to your Citizens Advice Bureau (if they have an employment expert - or even if not for initial talk)?

ohreally

It was unwise to accept a job offer prior to being made aware of the job description and remit of the post holder.In terms of "what next", you may be in a difficult position as management would likely argue that you were advised of the post remit at interview and you responded in the affirmative when they sought a response from you if they were to proceed with a job offer. You must establish the role of the post,in writing, and then consider if you have grounds to invoke a grievance.Without more information it would be difficult to give advice on the best way to progress with the situation. Is there union recognition at your workplace?