Islington nursery worker subjected to 'cruel and insensitive' treatment following son's cancer diagnosis
New River Children’s Centre, a nursery run by Islington Council, has imposed sickness absence procedures on a single mother while she cares for her three-year-old son, who is undergoing intensive cancer treatment.
GMB Union member Edwina Fleming has been signed off sick by her GP due to stress since her son’s diagnosis.
She has also had to accompany her son to hospital visits and stays, and care for him during recovery periods between treatment.
Despite this, Edwina is now being taken through an absence procedure which could result in dismissal.
Multiple absence meetings have been conducted without her present after she was unable to attend due to her son’s radiotherapy sessions and hospital admissions.
Her employer has also attempted to persuade Edwina to agree to unpaid leave, despite her being entitled to sick pay under her employment contract.
They have even attempted to contact her while attending hospital appointments with her son.
Kay Huntbach, GMB Regional Organiser, said:
“Edwina is dealing with the worst news a parent can receive.
“Her situation should have been met with compassion and support.
“Instead, her employer – a nursery of all places – has attempted to intimidate her while she is at her most vulnerable.
“GMB is calling on Islington Council to investigate the cruel and insensitive way in which Edwina has been treated and ensure she left in peace to support her son.”
