I’m looking for advice about a difficult workplace situation.

Things started after a coworker allegedly spread a rumour about me. Since around August, I have felt increasingly uncomfortable at work. I later came across Microsoft Teams conversations involving coworkers and management discussing me, criticizing my work and making negative comments. Some comments were personal and unprofessional.

I raised concerns about my situation and have experienced ongoing stress. More recently, I requested a medical accommodation because of health concerns, explaining that I could work at one Location but could not continue working at certain clinic locations.

After communicating this, my previously scheduled shifts were removed, and I was left with zero hours for the following week. I earn $21/hour, so this has created financial difficulties. I also feel that the situation has affected my physical health, mental well-being and academic performance.

I have screenshots of conversations, previous and updated schedules, messages with management, and other records. I am also seeking medical documentation and have contacted legal support services.

What should I do next? Could this potentially involve workplace retaliation, failure to accommodate a medical condition, or another employment-law issue? What steps should I take to protect my job, recover lost wages, and understand whether compensation may be available?

Question

I’m looking for advice about a difficult workplace situation.

Things started after a coworker allegedly spread a rumour about me. Since around August, I have felt increasingly uncomfortable at work. I later came across Microsoft Teams conversations involving coworkers and management discussing me, criticizing my work and making negative comments. Some comments were personal and unprofessional.

I raised concerns about my situation and have experienced ongoing stress. More recently, I requested a medical accommodation because of health concerns, explaining that I could work at one Location but could not continue working at certain clinic locations.

After communicating this, my previously scheduled shifts were removed, and I was left with zero hours for the following week. I earn $21/hour, so this has created financial difficulties. I also feel that the situation has affected my physical health, mental well-being and academic performance.

I have screenshots of conversations, previous and updated schedules, messages with management, and other records. I am also seeking medical documentation and have contacted legal support services.

What should I do next? Could this potentially involve workplace retaliation, failure to accommodate a medical condition, or another employment-law issue? What steps should I take to protect my job, recover lost wages, and understand whether compensation may be available?

Anonymous Practitioner · Accepted Answer

I’m so sorry you’re going through this, i hope things get better for you soon! And regarding the situation, i hope you have taken up the issue with your HR rather than directly taking a legal action!

Even if you have taken a legal action, you have complete right to demand redemption for your lost wages, mental stress and inappropriate work behavior against the specific colleague!

But if things are taking a toll with legal work and its causing you work stress, I advise you to work there until you find a better job and still fight the case with your lawyer because workplace harassment isn’t a matter to let go!