M.E in the workplace - do I have any protection?

AlwaysHappy

Basically, I work part time, diagnosed with M.E and when I leave work I now go home to sleep until the children get in from school. If I don't get this hour my symptoms are aggravated, back to sleeping 16 hour days, pain etc and just this simple thing has really improved my living conditions. However, my employer now wants to move my office as they say my hours don't fit their requirements. I just wondered when push comes to shove if medical reasons such as this would give me any protection against the move? Not sure if I have posted this on the right board but thought this was a good place to start. Thanks

Kittendreich

Your symptoms as you describe them would be covered by Disability discrimination legislation and therefore give you some protection. However, your employer only has to show that they have made reasonable adjustments to accomodate your disability and these do not have to be done at the detriment of the company. If you have a union get their support as to what you are entitled to and how this might be achieved. If not speak to HR/personnel if you have one to see how your need can be supported while still meeting the needs of the employer. My advise would be to work with your employer to find a compromise that allows their needs to be met and yours.

Mojisola

Have you spoken to the national ME organisations - https://www.afme.org.uk/ and https://www.meassociation.org.uk/

They should be able to give you some advice.

Good luck with the future - it's a horrible thing to have.

jenhug

you will be covered by the disability descrimination act. i'd suggest you join a union. i have a disability and i have found them excellent.

purplegirluk1

Just to agree with what others have said, I too have M.E and had a problem at work. M.E is covered by the DDA, I was a member of a union and my union rep sorted it all out for me with meetings etc. I would suggest joining a union if you haven't already, mine proved invaluable.

Also, I know exactly what you mean about being able to cope if you have that sleep. I too am in a position where I manage my symptoms and know that if this was changed it would mean a big set back. Good luck.

ceridwen

O.P. - you need to post on the Employment Board (its called "Employment, Jobseeking and Training").

So - maybe the Board Guide on this Board will move your thread over there later. Failing that - you could start up a thread on that Board about this.