Date: 25.09.2020
From: Jw
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Subject: Gout and work
Hi, Iām new on this forum hopefully I can get some advice, at this moment I feel a bit lost not knowing where I stand with this situation. I have been suffering from gout for almost 25yrs. Recently It has become more frequently not sure if itās anything to do with my age, because of the frequent attack this has effect my work during these recent years. I have work in retail for 11yrs doing 30hrs 5 days a week so Iām always up on my feet and it can be physical too. I recently had an unexpected gout flare up due to taking Allopurinol, so when I phoned my manager to explain my absence of work she bluntly said that I should considering quitting my job because of the amount of absences due to my illness and also my capability and liability to meet my contracted hours. She went on and said maybe this job isnāt suitable for me and considering looking elsewhere! I was upset knowing my own manger wasnāt supportive or have any sympathy towards me. I almost felt threatened by her words. I have been with the company for 11yrs and they are aware of my illness but theyāre continually putting these absences as one individual! Can they dismiss me because of my illness? Is gout classified as a disability? Where do I stand with this or is this pointless argument with my employer?! I donāt feel thereās any assurance for gout sufferers in a work place especially people who are working in retail or manual workers.
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Date: 25.09.2020
From: Lois
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Subject: Re: Gout and work
Hi JW, they cannot sack you wilst you are on sick leave.
My other half went through exactly the same thing after an accident at work. They threatened to give his job away.
You should get Drs Certificate to cover you if you can.
You can be sick for a year before they lay you off. You should then recieve a pay off similar to redundancy.
Do not leave because they will not pay you.
Speak to Human Resources tell them what the conversation was. Let them know it
Upset you. I really hope this helps. Nothing worse than people trying to bully you.
Take care
Just let me know if you need any more help
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Date: 25.09.2020
From: Lois
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Subject: Re: Gout and work
Hi its Lois again JW i have googled gout and disability for you. It is classed as a disability and you could get disability if you cant work.
Just remeber you should be being looked after by your employer people with disabilities have rights in the work place. It might just be your manager is not aware of this. Google your rights and the fact Gout is a disabilty. Print it off ready to show your manager you have rights.
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