View Full Version : harrassment at work
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 12:45 PM
hey guys - I wont bore you with the details (to be honest, I dont realy want to be thinkin about them!).
does anyone have any reliable info that isnt in legalise re: workplace harrassment?
I'v done the internet searches and just come up with a load of jargon.
please, please if anyone can shed any light on this, I would be eternaly grateful.
(also, if anyone feels like sending me good vibrations through the ether, I could do with it - I feel like my soul is being sucked dry.)
take it easy
09-09-2009, 01:04 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC2gZMNkyJo
truth finder
09-09-2009, 01:04 PM
hey guys - I wont bore you with the details (to be honest, I dont realy want to be thinkin about them!).
does anyone have any reliable info that isnt in legalise re: workplace harrassment?
I'v done the internet searches and just come up with a load of jargon.
please, please if anyone can shed any light on this, I would be eternaly grateful.
(also, if anyone feels like sending me good vibrations through the ether, I could do with it - I feel like my soul is being sucked dry.)
Sorry mate, maybe have a stiff drink and hope for a better day tomoz:)
take it easy
09-09-2009, 01:13 PM
maybe give everyone a jist of what's going and i'm sure everyone would be happy to dig around and help out.
chin up :)
yozhik
09-09-2009, 01:16 PM
What kind of harrassment?
Colleagues or management?
not amused
09-09-2009, 01:48 PM
why don't you want to bore us, blimey gov thats considerate of you, but we need some details so bore please. I was once an A.S.L.E.F union dude so might be able to offer a bit of advice..
rapunzel
09-09-2009, 02:04 PM
hey guys - I wont bore you with the details (to be honest, I dont realy want to be thinkin about them!).
does anyone have any reliable info that isnt in legalise re: workplace harrassment?
I'v done the internet searches and just come up with a load of jargon.
please, please if anyone can shed any light on this, I would be eternaly grateful.
(also, if anyone feels like sending me good vibrations through the ether, I could do with it - I feel like my soul is being sucked dry.)
It depends who's doing the harassment and why it is happening. Does your employer have any Policy on bullying and do you have a union? I was a union workplace rep when I was working and won a bullying case for one of my colleagues.
Positive vibes on their way:)
les_paul_robot
09-09-2009, 02:24 PM
I know about this except I was deemed to be sort of doing it :eek:
Er, yeah, if you find it upsets you then it could be, plus it doesn't have to be repeated over time, just once is enough.
God, I can't stand 'the workplace', full of wankers who've successfully had a sense of humour bypass operation.
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 02:44 PM
thanks for the support guys. well here goes:
I work under my manager, in a site that is remote from our company - just the two of us here.
For two years, I have dilligently met and exceeded all expectations in this role - backed up by my appraisal.
For the last couple of months my manager has been making comments eg. the business cannot support both of us..... you should be looking for another job.... what are your carear plans, as this is a sinking ship etc.
For a while, I'v taken it on the chin, but in the last 5 weeks, he has had the same coversation once a week - a little to often for me just to over look.
Last week, we had the conversation twice.....
after the first conversation last week, I told him straight out he was acting inappropriatly, and I NEVER wanted to have this discussion again.....
two days later - same bloody thing!
I asked for an official meeting to discuss the situation, as by this point he was obviously trying to manipulate me.
last friday he set the meeting for this monday (yay - great weekend of worry!)......
The meeting made no mention whatsoever of my job security, nor his comments...... BUT
it did make many changes to our operating procedure on a day to day basis - not least of which actualy changes my working hours(outwith my contract), and redefines my Job Specification.
we run at a loss at the moment - which is why he wants me to leave - take my wage out of the equation, and this is a very profitable part of the business.
he didnt succeed in making me leave by psychological warefare....... now he is changing the goal posts, to try and make this as uncomfortable possition as possible.
also, all the points highlighted at the meeting, refer to his own shortcomings in his job - almost like they are being transfered to me!!!!!FFS, like I said at the top of this post, I have worked dilligently, above standard and with upmost integrity throughout my time in this job.
I raised my concerns with HR last week, before the meeting with my manager.
Also, the notes from the manager I requested after the meeting, do not square up with the notes I took at the meeting - a few extra's, a few ommissions!!!!!!!!!!
I contacted HR today, to request a copy of my Employment Handbook, a copy of both possitions Job Spec, and a copy of the company grevience proceedure - I have stated to them I believe this constitutes Harassment.
FFFFFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW WW!
Sorry if the spelling/grammar/thread is a bit all over the place!
We are a two man office, and have no union..... if anyone can help with advice, I will be gratefull.
Cheers for the beach boys track - worked a treat.
les_paul_robot
09-09-2009, 02:50 PM
You can still join a union yourself. I would do this. It might be £10-20 a month, but when TSHthe fan you'll appreciate the free representation and legal advice.
Continue to make notes of things that you notice or that irk you.
This could turn into a 'constructive dismissal' case if he gets his way.
separ
09-09-2009, 03:22 PM
For the last couple of months my manager has been making comments eg. the business cannot support both of us..... you should be looking for another job.... what are your carear plans, as this is a sinking ship etc.
For a while, I'v taken it on the chin, but in the last 5 weeks, he has had the same coversation once a week - a little to often for me just to over look.
Last week, we had the conversation twice.....
after the first conversation last week, I told him straight out he was acting inappropriatly, and I NEVER wanted to have this discussion again.....
two days later - same bloody thing!
He's trying to get rid of you, through the wrong means. Keep a diary of all comments and meetings and incidents, no matter how minor. I'm not being pessimistic, but he has the upper hand in this game as he's your boss. I would start preparing your evidence now, as I foresee an unfair dismissal (constructive dismissal as Les Paul said) case on its way. Remember, if you're forced to leave because of this harassment, you have only 3 months from the date you leave to lodge your claim with the Employment Tribunal.
lauren_almighty
09-09-2009, 03:31 PM
http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk/forum/employment-problems/
This website ^ really helped me when I was having problems at work.
You are best keeping a diary before you seek any legal help. I contacted human resources first with a letter of complaint about my working conditions and although they were useless, it helps if the company knows that you are not happy about something.
deafbred
09-09-2009, 03:39 PM
it's what they want in the end, ie YouR SouL.
so.... it's either money, or soul, you decide which one to keep.
me, i rather keep soul, its invaluable
deafbred
09-09-2009, 03:42 PM
heh - just found this on mainpage after leaving this thread
http://www.davidicke.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1256511#post1256511
Poker player loses it all after day in court
les_paul_robot
09-09-2009, 03:44 PM
Yeah, they just want your soul!
Hey Glacidtek, I'm sure, ahem, that if say, you wanted him to never bring it up again, that there are people who could arrange that :D
unusual_suspect
09-09-2009, 03:50 PM
what country are you in glacidtek? A couple of years ago I went to a solicitor about harrassment at work but I am in UK so only know legislation that applies to UK laws
Aww man I feel for you I really do, I worked for years for a bullying cow, in the end they did get her out.
Bet bit of advise I can give you is keep a diary, sounds boring but you really need to keep a written not of it all.
wishing you all the best.
avaruus
09-09-2009, 04:03 PM
i hate those machiavellian type bosses. they dont have the guts to fire people but pest and bully until. you resign on your own..
and for jargon. the worst thing is when people take the job jargon attitude with them home.
a good leader gets support.
a bad leader demands it
jammasterj13
09-09-2009, 05:08 PM
Record your fuckwit boss' conversations with you on an mp3 player with a mic.
I've got one, I use it to record business seminars, tiny little doobie but very handy!
dynamicwiseman
09-09-2009, 06:43 PM
Keep evidence of your harassment and try to ignore most of the uncomfortable situations your boss puts you in. If your boss has not filled the place with perps or sub contractors designed to interfere with your work, consider yourself lucky.
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 07:13 PM
thanks for the words of support - its daft, but this is realy getting to me.
I'm on the right tracks like most are saying - I'v a diary recording whats happened in the last month, HR are aware of his previous misdemeners, and they are aware of the current situation......
I need to get myself back on the track of enjoying life - this realy is getting to me... I wish it wasnt.
I'm in the UK - so any advice on our system much appreciated.
HR has asked for me to document everything, then see where we are at.
unusual_suspect
09-09-2009, 07:23 PM
thanks for the words of support - its daft, but this is realy getting to me.
I'm on the right tracks like most are saying - I'v a diary recording whats happened in the last month, HR are aware of his previous misdemeners, and they are aware of the current situation......
I need to get myself back on the track of enjoying life - this realy is getting to me... I wish it wasnt.
I'm in the UK - so any advice on our system much appreciated.
HR has asked for me to document everything, then see where we are at.
Ok, right you can call Acas or have a look at their site: http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1461
You will be able to find an advice line on there to call about any employment issues, they can advise on whether you employer is within the law or not.
Basically a lot of the law hinges upon how long you have been employed but you can find that info on the site. In the first year as an employee you have very little rights, that I do know, it is not untill you have been in continuous employment for 2 years with the same employer that you have certain rights.
You can call the CLS (community Legal Service) on 0845 345 4 345, I am not sure of your financial situation and if you are entitled to legal aid. You may be able to get free advice from a solicitor over the telephone. http://www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk/en/directory/directorysearch.jsp
mark1963
09-09-2009, 07:27 PM
Your manager has no right to change your contract. You have the right not to sign the new one with the full blessing of the law. If your part of the business is profitable then he would not be able to justify changing the contract at all.
If you are in the UK then contact the CAB and they will advise you. Even if you have signed the new contract I am sure that a case of harassment or duress could be upheld.
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 07:41 PM
i'll check out the link - thanks very much.
I havnt been asked to sign a new contract - just had my working times, and job scope changed....
I'm in the process of seeing how the new regeme relates to my job description and contract.
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 07:42 PM
.... come the first week of October, I'v been in the job 2years.
unusual_suspect
09-09-2009, 07:47 PM
.... come the first week of October, I'v been in the job 2years.
hang in their. All the best :)
mrmoney
09-09-2009, 07:50 PM
Seeing as I don't know what you look like, original poster, I cannot send you any good vibrations.
The best solution is to walk away from whatever job/situation you're in right now. That will help you. Just walk away.
glacidtek
09-09-2009, 08:34 PM
mr money - if you want to see what I look like, take my avitar and alter as negative in photoshop - this is only the appearance I have addopted for this life though!
seriously - I am paid a good wage in an industry with few opertunitys.... and I'm only doing it untill I'v enough money together to escape this reality.
I want to work for my self, providing for myself in a self sufficient life in a wonderful envoronment with people I love.....
land costs cash - hence the job.
danster82
09-09-2009, 09:47 PM
Hold a sharpened blade to his throat and say "If I hear another word out of you or get any grief ill open you up"
Thing tend to settle down afterwards.
whybeherenow
10-09-2009, 12:38 AM
thanks for the support guys. well here goes:
I work under my manager, in a site that is remote from our company - just the two of us here.
Has it been the 2 of you the whole time - has he been there as long as you?
For two years, I have dilligently met and exceeded all expectations in this role - backed up by my appraisal.
That's where you went wrong - I am not trying to be funny. If you are that competent - why would you need to be 'managed' - what justifies his existence?
For the last couple of months my manager has been making comments eg. the business cannot support both of us..... you should be looking for another job.... what are your carear plans, as this is a sinking ship etc.
Is he looking elsewhere then, if it's a sinking ship? Maybe he has someone on standby who he wants in the job?
I asked for an official meeting to discuss the situation, as by this point he was obviously trying to manipulate me.last friday he set the meeting for this monday (yay - great weekend of worry!)......
I hope you realise this was deliberate - to make you worry over the weekend
he didnt succeed in making me leave by psychological warefare....... now he is changing the goal posts, to try and make this as uncomfortable possition as possible.you said it
also, all the points highlighted at the meeting, refer to his own shortcomings in his job - almost like they are being transfered to me!!!!!and this suprises you?FFS, like I said at the top of this post, I have worked dilligently, above standard and with upmost integrity throughout my time in this job.I repeat, that's where you went wrong
I raised my concerns with HRthey will protect and support him and help get rid of you last week, before the meeting with my manager.
Also, the notes from the manager I requested after the meeting, do not square up with the notes I took at the meeting - a few extra's, a few ommissions!!!!!!!!!!I repeat HR will protect and support him and help him get rid of you
I contacted HR today, to request a copy of my Employment Handbook, a copy of both possitions Job Spec, and a copy of the company grevience proceedure - I have stated to them I believe this constitutes Harassment.This is a good approach - if HR thinks you know and will protect your rights - they will be more careful about how they handle youWe are a two man office, and have no union..... if anyone can help with advice, I will be gratefull.
Cheers for the beach boys track - worked a treat.
I'm sorry if you find my response negative, but it is based on a considerable amount of experience in corporate environments and all the things I have seen done to people, and my own experiences.
The fact that you are highly competent counts for nothing. Realise and understand that. Do not expect to be rewarded or supported. I have seen people shafted after decades of serving their employers for no reason other than change of management or personal dislike.
Conversely, I have not once seen anyone removed for incompetence without other reasons coming into play.
As far as companies not making money goes, or company restructures, I have seen someone still in a job when they no longer had a department to manage, because it had been moved to another state. Still had the job because of personal connections. Obviously had zero to do.
It's all bullshit.
Unless you can detach sufficiently to continue working in the same manner, without it affecting the rest of your life, you are screwed.
Even if you go through the processes and 'win', it may be difficult to stay motivated and content in this environment. Been there done that - I 'won', got paid money, still had my job, had to leave anyway, because by then I hated that company. A decade later, any mention of it, a high-profile charity, and I still feel contempt and disgust.
Maybe you could get rid of him quickly. Two words - no witnesses. Okay, now I am not being serious, or am I?:D
Your on the right track - make as much money as possible and get the hell out.
Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
glacidtek
10-09-2009, 10:18 AM
I'm not too sure where to go from here -
Should I be questioning the new hours?I believe they are outwith my contract...
my contract states:
"normal hours are 8am - 5pm, monday to friday with one hour for breaks. However, the nature of the Companys business is such that hours worked will be based on supporting the clients requirements. You may therefor be required to work unpaid overtime inclyuding Saturdays, Sundays and Bank holidays" (overtime is taken as time in leu.)
my new hours have been dictated as such:
"Recap on working hours-40 hour week
Early shift 8am-5pm (1 hour’s lunch)
Late shift 10am-7pm (1 hour’s lunch)
We can have an option of having half an hour’s lunch break and finishing half an hour earlier where workload permits."
*** working a late shift one week, early shift the next and so on....
I have spoken to the end client, and there is no requirement from a business perspective for these hours - it doesnt make sence to them either.
glacidtek
10-09-2009, 12:35 PM
????
glacidtek
10-09-2009, 12:36 PM
I'v been here 2 years, my manager 4 years....
I was originaly employed because the client complained that my manager couldnt do the job on his own!
glacidtek
11-09-2009, 10:24 AM
shameless bump...
glacidtek
11-09-2009, 11:42 AM
this was originaly in the General section, and moved by Gilly here....
not too sure if any of you guys here can help, or shed any light on my situation?
many thanks.
mark1963
11-09-2009, 12:46 PM
i'll check out the link - thanks very much.
I havnt been asked to sign a new contract - just had my working times, and job scope changed....
I'm in the process of seeing how the new regeme relates to my job description and contract.
To have any working conditions changed means you would need to sign a new contract. If they have not then they are breaking the law. Do not sign a new contract. State you are returning to your original working conditions as stated on your contract in writing.
This may mean they might try to get rid of you another way. Any request they make of you, ensure you ask - no demand - it in writing. Put all request you have in writing. Create a paper trail and keep copies.
This is to ensure you have a water tight case should they try to off you.
rowan22
11-09-2009, 01:06 PM
this was originally in the General section, and moved by Gilly here....
not too sure if any of you guys here can help, or shed any light on my situation?
many thanks.
What I would advise you to do if you haven't already is start making detailed notes about the way you are being treated. Dates, times. Make a note of whether or not you and the bully are alone or not. Never agree to have any official meetings with him alone. Always insist on there being a H.R representative or better a union rep present. Another route to go, is to see a legal contract specialist. This is not an uncommon experience for many people and he would be well aware of the divisive tactics employed by companies in these circumstances.
Just make sure you take action sooner rather than later because otherwise the bully will try and erode your self esteem to the point where you begin to question your own clarity. They can also usually be very adept at using just enough disdain for you as to be undetectable to someone else, but be very undermining in its cumulative effect on you. You then run the risk of deliberately being made to look"nurotic" and your concerns dismissed.
Hope this helps Rowan.
glacidtek
11-09-2009, 03:00 PM
thanks for the advice - I'v got a record of everything that has went on, and trying to keep on top of things....
rowan - you mention getting a contract lawyer to look at it - I'm in ful time employment, so that will cost me cash?
also - what could I hope to gain from going down that route?
I was thinking of following company grevience proceedure re: Harrassment, which could result in gross miss-conduct ie. manager being sacked.
Higher managment and HR have asked for a copy of the notes from the meeting giving new working hours - I have stalled them, saying I'm collating th information and considering my options......
I doubt they wll stand by my manger - theyhavnt dictated new hour - he has done that himself.