Overworked and understaffed

footyguy

spikeboy wrote: »

Hi all,


I'd really appreciate some advice on a situation at work. I work in an office and on my section there is a total of 3 workers (including myself). We have a deputy manager and a manager. My section has lost 3 workers over the past 3 to 4 years but the work is still intense and I would say we need at least 1 more person to cope with it. However, we have been told that we are not getting anyone else as the company feels we have enough people to deal with the work (even though they've never provided evidence of how they reached this decision). My colleagues and I work our butts off each and everyday and struggle to keep our heads above water with the workload sometimes even working through lunch. Other departments dotted around the office seem to be able to have a laugh and seem like some of them have too many people for their workload (some even spend time shopping on the internet in work hours)! We've brought these related issues to our deputy manager and manager on numerous occasions but always get brushed off with varying excuses. I don't feel that there is much empathy/sympathy towards our situation. Isn't there a minimum number of breaks we are legally entitled to during a day? Would going direct to HR be an option? Personally I feel like quitting and walking away as no job is worth feeling this stressed out about. Any advice would be appreciated. Many thanks!

Two managers to control just 3 workers? Seems like your organisation is a bit top heavy.

How do your two fellow workers feel?

If they are in agreement with you, have you discussed your issues together with either or both of your immediate managers?

If that fails, have you considered foillowing the company's official grievance procedure?

Does your employer recognise your union, and even if not, what have they advised?

Ultimately, if you are unhappy in your work, then you must make a decision on whether or not you wish to continue with that employment. Again you may obtain a better response if all 3 workers felt likewise and were prepared to act in unison.

Note, most jobs involve stress of some kind at some time. Even those flipping burgers in MaccyD's can get stressed.

Slinky

Hard though it may be, stop working so hard. Come in at 9, go home at 5.30, take your lunch breaks. Nobody is going to do anything to help you whilst you all keep coping.