Disciplinary Hearing for Sickness

[dinga]

I have been asked by a colleague to attend his disciplinary hearing at work for sickness. I have never been asked to do this before and am not sure what is expected of me or what the rules and regs are surrounding a hearing. My colleague has Type 1 Diabetes and also a pancreatic patient. He has had some 350 hours absent since May 04. No verbal warnings or written warnings have been given...is this correct? He has been to see the company doctor twice as directed and on both occasions, has been told that his conditon is not jeopardising his work. Any advice, would be really appreciated.

[dinga]

Thanks Andy. I am a member of a trade union, he is not. I have called them today and am waiting for a call back. His hearing is on Tues. Can I be present aswell as a union rep?? Could he join and they would represent at such short notice?

[ursula62]

Your friend might not know that Diabetes (both type 1 and type 2) are covered by the Disability Discrimination Act.

If you do speak to the union rep on your friend's behalf, make sure you ask him to cover it from that side too.

[mystress]

As usual VERY wise words from both Andy and Ursula,I can only agree with their advice.

[dinga]

Thanks Guys for your help. He is joining the Union today. The hearing is scheduled for Tues but may now be changed. I will update you all.

Thank you again, your advice is appreciated.

[Dom Tuk]

Joining a union after a diciplinary hearing has been scheduled really gets my goat. They dont want to pay the subcription (as others do for years) and want the advice of the union when in trouble. I wish unions would specify that hearings scheduled before the first subscription will not receive representation.

[Bangkok]

Not sure where you are, but most countries have a national diabetic association, who can provide advice and support for such problems (and yes, you are expected to be a member!).  If your friend is in the UK, try Diabetes UK. 

[OBonio]

350 hours since May... 9 weeks in ... 10weeks? That's impressive. If managed properly, diabetes should not affect their ability to work. My advice would be if you are not directly involved, I wouldn't get involved.

[OBonio]

Sorry, I read that as May 4th for some reason.... pesky eyes...