Having problems at work, can I be part of a strike / walk out without being part of a union?

[mountainboo]

I'll try to keep it as short as possible: I work with 3 other people and 3 of us are currently undergoing mediation at work due to no longer be able to work with our line manager. Problems have escalated over the last 2 years and have really become unbearable which has resulted in this mediation process. It started when my line manager came back from long term sick (depression related) She felt very threatened by the efficient running of the branch and good team work and began changing many things. She also began undermining senior staff infront of customers.She has, over time implemented an over controlling regime, not allowing discretion of any sort, she is extremley abcsent minded, very insensitive, massively selfish, rude to my senior colleagues, displays no personal skills whatsoever, can't communicate instructions in a clear way. Many people from other branches refuse to work with her. With all this in mind, my colleagues have complained many, many times to management. My line manager should not be in this role, management have stated off the record that they agree, however they say they can't afford to get rid of her and have been less than helpful along the way!!! What is the next step, I want to stage a walk out with my 2 other colleagues, but would we get the sack if we did?

[Postdog]

Don't know the legalities, but I would think in a word yes. Chances are, if they are such a pain and they have not got rid, it would be easier for them to appoint new staff to work under her.

[Twenty20]

To be honest, if you withdraw your labour and refuse to work then it will be you who gets disciplined, which could ultimately lead to your dismissal. If it's so bad working there, why not look for another job?

[mrs_overall]

Yes, you probably would be sacked if you walked out.
You mention other branches so I assume your employer is not a small one man band outfit. They should have a clear grievance procedure. I would ask for a copy of it and then the 3 of you should put in a formal grievance as soon as poss. In the meantime, keep a detailed diary of everything your line manager does - the more evidence you have, the better.
Good luck.

[tiggerblue10]

Just testing to see if I'm allowed back on before I put a long-winded answer!

[mountainboo]

Thanks for your input all, I actually do enjoy my job, as do my colleagues and when it's just us (which is rare), we have a great working day. I work for a county council, for obvious reasons I can't elaborate what directorate. I will look into the formal grievance procedure. Thanks again

[helpmetoo]

all three of you could of course have the flu for a few days at the same time and self certificate yourselves,

achieves the same as a walk out without the risk,

otherwise go to see her and simultaneously give her the foxtrot oscar treatment

[tiggerblue10]

Hi mountainboo, I am currently on sick absence and I am waiting for a decision about a grievance I put in against my boss for bullying. Unfortunately, no one else wants to admit that my boss is very hard to work with. He has upset so many people including my senior manager who he has manipulated.

At least you have other people who agree with you and you can deal with this together.

Good luck x

[mountainboo]

I'm sorry to hear that tiberblue, I should imagine it makes things alot harder when you have to go through it alone? It's good that you have started a grievance as it shows you aren't going to take any s**t anymore. Good luck with that, keep positive