Sleep ins...support worker and back ache !

[Deleted User]

I'm a full time support worker, residential. Due to staff shortages I'd been told that I had to do sleep ins. Before I did the sleeps I mentioned that I had back problems and that the soft mattress could cause my bad back to flare up. Well it did, I'm not in constant pain but it does ache more than before and the bed is so uncomfortable. Can I refuse to do the sleeps  or have I no choice. It's states in my contract that they are part of my hours etc. 

lincroft1710

You could refuse to do the sleep-in on the grounds that it is damaging to your health. But would you do them if a more suitable mattress was provided? Refusal could lead to dismissal. Perhaps discuss with your employer.

Diamandis

What does your doctor say about your back problem? Have you tried sleeping in different positions or using support pillows? If it's part of your contract you probably can't outright refuse but you could ask for an occupational health assessment or some adjustments. 

magicgal

If you have back problems, ask for a occupational health assessment. They can then advise your employer to either take you of that part of the road or guide them into what they can do to help you in the role such as providing a better mattress. You can refuse on health grounds but the sooner you can get occ health to back you up, the better of will be for your job overall. 

[Deleted User]

I've decided to move on from the job, not just because of this but many issues are now cropping up and extra hours that I'm now being asked  to work are now interfering with family life. Thanks for the replies.