Raising a formal grievance about boss... to boss

Savvy_Sue

Frikkadel wrote: »

Also is there any sort of discrimination against new mothers in the workplace after returning from maternity. As my employer has changed his attitude considerably towards since returning, he never had these issues, or any really before then with me, in fact I was always commended for my work, and now Im being told my level of work is grossly substandard, and this only after being back two days!!

Dimey wrote: »

I thought you had a right to return to your own job or one similar when you return from maternity leave. So research that too. Especially as the maternity cover person seems to have taken half your work. I don't think you should be at any less status than you were before.

Depends: Frik, did you return after OML, or did you take any AML? The right to return to your own job (or as near as possible) is there if you don't take any AML, I believe your protection is slightly reduced if you've taken AML. Also did you return on the same hours, or did you ask to go p/t? Again, that reduces your rights. See here.

Frikkadel

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Takeaway_Addict

Frikkadel wrote: »

Thank you Coraline, great advice, and you right I should have all my ducks in a row before I do this, that's why Im on here asking advice first, because I don't want to get it wrong.

I am finding the whole process really stressful and quite draining, having to work full time with a young baby to boot, is exhausting enough without the added pressure of having someone on your case constantly, nitpicking and watching everything u do. I have made an appointment to go see doctor about this.

With regards to noting down the grievances, Im just not sure how to go about this, it such a long list and quite detailed and most grievance advice sites say not to put too much down. So I am just not sure what to write, how to word it, etc.

You do realise that things won't get better?

Are you angling for a compromise agreement to get out there with a bit of money and a good reference?

Frikkadel

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Coraline

Takeaway_Addict wrote: »

You do realise that things won't get better?

Are you angling for a compromise agreement to get out there with a bit of money and a good reference?

I refer to Takeaway_Addict's signature:

" Don't trust a forum for advice. Get proper paid advice. Any advice given should always be checked "

These forums are for bouncing ideas back and forth and to gain guidance towards the correct direction.

This situation is complicated. Don't trust a forum for advice. Get proper paid advice.

"

Takeaway_Addict

Coraline wrote: »

I refer to Takeaway_Addict's signature:

" Don't trust a forum for advice. Get proper paid advice. Any advice given should always be checked "

These forums are for bouncing ideas back and forth and to gain guidance towards the correct direction.

This situation is complicated. Don't trust a forum for advice. Get proper paid advice.

"

Great point, this is a very complicated situation but I can't see this going well and I don't think the OP can either.

Dimey

Frikkadel, it sounds like you've got a bit of research to do before you can go into detail with your employer. On the other hand you want to register this grievance as soon as possible, not least before your boss gives you a formal warning.

Do you have the money to be able to visit an employment solicitor. (Some give a first half hour free). Its sounds like you have a strong case so worth an investment to get a professional to word things for you and give appropriate advice.

If you go that route I wonder what you and other posters think to the edited letter below: -

Frikkadel wrote: »

Dear Mr --- and Mr ---

Formal GrievanceLetter


I would like to raise a formal grievance about the unfair treatment I have received from Mr --- since my return to work from maternity leave on the -- -- --.

Mr ---- has changed the terms of my job description without my agreement and I have been needlessly subjected to a campaign of harassment. This has created an oppressive and intimidating working environment.


As you know, I have always been a capable worker, dealing with a work load previously done by three members of staff. My workload consistently increased every year during my tenure, and the company has commended my diligence.

I feel Mr ---’s attitude towards me has changed dramatically since I returned from maternity leave. It appears I am being discriminated against as a new mother.

I would like to register my grievance within the company's formal procedures and request a meeting within one month, with Mr (the director who hasn't been intimidating you). Please allow me some time to take professional advice before setting the actual date.

YS

Frikkadel

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Takeaway_Addict

Frikkadel wrote: »

Dimey, that is a really good edit of my letter, I think it is worded much better, especially about the terms of my job description being changed without my consent. In one of the 7 meetings we have had so far, he spent 20 minutes to get me to confirm that this was always part of my job.

I am not expecting things to get better at all, if anything, things will be a lot worse for me at work. I fully expect to lose my job at the end of this, because everything he has done so far is geared towards a disciplinary and then dismissal. I just want to put up a good fight... Brings to mind one of my favourite poems ..."Do not go gentle into that good night... Rage, rage at the dying of the light"

Ive just been recommended a good employment law solicitor in the area, by a friend who helped her with her tribunal case. I do feel I am in way over my head, and I think I should first get advice before I give the letter to my employer

Definately get advice and ask about compromise agreements.

Dimey

Frikkadel - how did you get on with the solicitor?