DEAR DEIDRE: It was meant to be my perfect job, but has turned into a nightmare.
My employer expects me to work far more than my contracted hours and won’t even let me take a holiday.
I have a child and it’s making life impossible. I’m now on the verge of quitting. I’m 42 and work for an IT firm.
On paper, the job looked great, with a good salary, benefits, six weeks of holiday and flexible working, which was important as my son is four.
But the reality is that everyone is expected to work nine to six every day. Sometimes, I’m in the office until 9pm.
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When I asked for a couple of weeks off, my boss said it wasn’t possible.
When I complained to HR, I was told nothing could be done. I’ve had the job for six months. Should I walk away?
DEIDRE SAYS: If you’ve only worked there for six months, you won’t have the protection of full employment rights.
Your employer has the right to refuse a holiday request but they need to let you know with at least the same amount of notice as the length of the holiday you want to take.
If they keep refusing your requests then you may need to make a claim with an employment tribunal.
This company sounds like it has a very unpleasant office culture. It may be best for your wellbeing to start looking for another job.
Get advice from your union, if you’re in one, or contact acas.org.uk (0300 123 1100) for advice on workplace issues.
