Richard's Vlog, 20th to 24th Jan '25 - A week of stress & anxiety

I'm experiencing quite a bit of stress and anxiety because of work. We decided to get out on Thursday for a walk a Kew which helped me to clear my head to a certain extent. Thank goodness storm Eowyn hasn't had much of an impact in the south but my heart goes out to those who have been affected.
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[@dianasims1381]

Stay strong,, 🌸xx

[@janegoodfellow1529]

Kew sounds like the perfect location for a true escape from the worries of everyday life. The instinct can be to hide under our duvets but getting out and about, if we can somehow find the energy and motivation, can work wonders.

[@lindabuchan5855]

Absolutely bloody furious Richard, how they can treat people like that, yes stand your ground & see what happens, it’s annoying how they spend so many hours getting all these unrealistic statistics & I’m sure that their hours could be put to better use. Kew Gardens looked lovely even on a rainy day, sending you lots & lots of hugs ❤

[@mariac3534]

Sorry you're having to deal with all the stress at work. I hope the situation improves for you soon.

[@StevieWeevie66]

Richard I know it's not ideal or easy at our time of life, but maybe while you're still there look for another job. On the other hand you may be indisbensable and the threat of leaving might make them wake up & realise. I know that's easier said than done but your health is far more important. Much love, Steve and Alfie xx

[@hellowildflowerstories]

Richard, work sounds so hard and stressful for you x It must be hard to switch off x

[@janegoodfellow1529]

You are talented, clever, skilled, experienced, wise, compassionate, and respected by sensible colleagues. If you decided to look for another post, you would be snapped up I feel. The option of working just for the health team sounds like it could work brilliantly, and how lovely that they are being so supportive.

[@Debbieanne51]

It's never nice when the people above decide to disrupt the status quo , stay strong . I laughed out loud with the storm pronunciation ....we did the same. I hope you back is feeling better.

[@clairbarnard9058]

Meh, what a shitty way to have to work. Any of you Union members? You are taking care of yourself Richard, but it’s still stressful having to go through it. Much love to you….in solidarity x

[@donnastacey7227]

Dear Richard, I have been here, how terrible for someone who gives everything to their job. If I'm telling granny to suck eggs sorry but document, record etc. every engagement with management and possibly colleagues. I was told that colleagues " weren't allowed to talk about you" after I refused to carry a senior position plus mine for my own salary. Paul crying in the toilet resonated with me , I've been there. I'm thinking of you every day xxx PS I do hope the health care position is a possibility . Big love xxx

[@nicolapatmore6534]

Kew Gardens ❤ soothes the soul.

[@Debbieanne51]

So sorry to hear the status quo is being interfered with at your place of work. Kew Gardens looks lovely, I haven't been there for years. I hope your back is feeling better.

[@SuperNorini]

The expression casting your pearls before swine comes to mind when you talk about the bullying buffoons.

[@mandymaxwell3249]

Sorry Richard your having a rough time 😘

[@sammorris75]

Sorry, I’ve been through stress at work which resulted in me walking from a job I loved and was brilliant at. This was over a year ago and I’m still not over it. My confidence is shot. They don’t care my darling, they don’t. I’m sorry you’re going through this. Lots of love xxxx

[@RichardandPaul]

It's very challenging....I'm sorry to hear about your experience.

[@sammorris75]

@@RichardandPaul Thanku xxx

[@tritonb.1746]

Richard I hope things get sorted out for you; I would be relying on my chocolate stash but I know you have healthy habits and love walking. Enjoyed the vlog. Music can be a healing tool. Have a great week😊

[@cathyserafinowicz6374]

So sorry you’re having this trouble in work,but glad you told yourself off for letting it get you down.Great you went to Kew,how stunning that place is. And finally I’m glad to see your chuckle muscle is working again,keep it up! 😘😘❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@beverley1539]

Hiya Richard, ce la vie 🤞🏻 re work . Loved the visit to Kew. Take care Thankyou see you next Friday. Ontario Canada. 🐝🇨🇦👋🏻

[@judyfaulkner407]

It sounds as if you are having a crap time at the moment but as my mum use to say “ this too will pass “ Lets hope it passes very effing quickly☺️ Keep ya chin up old bean and have a good weekend 😘

[@BriansJerseygarden]

I do the same thing I had a stressful day on Monday my mind will not stop reminding me I keep giving myself sermon I wish it would pass

[@melaniebaker2233]

The social care system is broken and your situation is a symptom of that, most of this will be outside your control or influence. Calmly express your boundaries and take your next best step. You’ll find a way but it’s so hard when you’re in the middle of the storm. As I’ve got older, I’ve found walking to burn off the adrenaline and cortisol from stress is one of the best things for me. You need a good box set to escape to in the evenings. Have a relaxing weekend x

[@sharonmacdougall3996]

Richard I am so sorry you are experiencing such stress from work. Hard to escape such toxicity without giving up a job you used to love. So very stressful and toxic. I will keep positive thoughts for you that things turn around. ❤️

[@TheMoodyshyte]

So sorry you're having such a shit time with your employer, Richard. I love how you're determined to make your views known. Hopefully you'll have union backup? Sending positive thoughts your way ❤❤

[@alexvlachoulis1409]

Stay strong!

[@glynnisross7974]

I am so sorry that through no fault of your own you have been put in such a stressful situation. These days the management of most companies do not think about how their actions impact on their workforce causing health and mental problems. My thoughts are with you that it all gets sorted to your satisfaction and you can continue working in the job you love. Last week when you were told about the extra workload coming your way and to your colleagues, it was handled appallingly and the manager in charge should be ashamed. Take care and see you and Paul on Sunday Chat x

[@tweetybirdmom]

I feel for you when you start to hate your job you don't want to go to work, and you can see the stress in your face please try to relax companies want more out of people for the same pay so they don't have to hire, I love the walks, the trees, and plants are just so beautiful to look at

[@JudyReadsCards]

I would react and respond in exactly the same way. Been there. Luckily, we may sound like we're losing it, but we're resilient. Gotta have a whinge.😘

[@susymanoosy]

Richard, your self parenting resonated with me so much. My job has also taken a what almost feels like a sinister turn of late, monitoring my every move and me having to account for what seems like just taking a breath sometimes. The pressure is immense. Its really rocked my world not just my working life but my home life. So I also had a strong word with myself. I’ve no idea what these large national corporations are doing at the moment. Much love 💕

[@Growyourowninacourtyard]

Have they changed your contract? Where you notified? Have you looked into the legalities of it?

[@witsonsmom729]

I hope things resolve in a positive way soon at work.

[@mandie3049]

Oh Richard, i am so sorry you are having to deal with all this. My employer sounds very similar. They carnt legally terminate you so they make it more and more difficult so you are pushed out. Its a disgusting way to treat people. ❤

[@SissyKay]

Oh yes, emotional stress can put a strain on the back and even knock it out of whack with just a sneeze or turn to reach for something. I hope your job situation is resolved soon in a favorable way for you. 😘

[@88peachpie88]

💕💚🖖☺✌

[@kellymendez9035]

I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this at work. I wondered if they were going to give you more responsibilities when you mentioned having to make notes on what you do each day. (And during the slow part of the season). I hope that they are at least paying you more (not that it matters). I'm glad you pointed out that your notes during down time (Holiday) are not an accurate representation of your daily tasks. Hope things smooth over for you.

[@janegoodfellow1529]

Oh Richard, I'm so sorry to hear about your distressing, demoralising situation. I'm glad you have some decent, reasonable colleagues. It's hard to fathom why the others are behaving so badly and heartlessly.

[@marinakaplais]

They would be daft to lose you….as has been said,are you part of a union. I work for the nhs and am in Unite. Sorry you are under such stress Richard.

[@kerrybyers257]

Chocolate is always a great help!

[@kerrybyers257]

So sorry. This is the new way of forcing folk out of the workforce (especially part timers). The job is changed. Either call their bluff and give it your best or tighten your budget and get ready to retire. Suggest you ask what exactly they want you to prioritize and concentrate your energy on that. And don’t complain… it does no good and gives them fodder for termination. Get ready for retirement, regardless. Do Hope there’s a part time slot with Health Care solely. 🤞🙏👍

[@mrsb_96]

I was a local authority social worker. The modus operandi seems to be senior managers circulate through the authorities, making 'changes' that make things worse, then leave for another authority where they can wreak havoc...and so the cycle continues. Those who suffer are the service users and the staff. Sadly I know of so many local authority staff that worked so hard in difficult circumstances, and when they reached their longed for retirement, the impact of those years took its toll in unfortunate ways. I'm sure its a familiar tale to you. Anyway, being positive, look after yourself. You are not an automaton. I hope you manage to move to the health team, and in the meantime put everything in writing. If you're in a union get their advice, if not get your work contract checked by one of the those free solicitors or the CAB so you are clear about your rights. Managers are good at "word salad" and brushing things off (they are all secretly in a state of utter panic that the whole 'house of cards' will come tumbling down - which is why the executives move on so quickly.) Thinking of you. Hoping and praying that things are resolved soon. 🙂🙏🤞✨

[@juliehynes3317]

Sorry to say but totally agree. I have worked for ASC for the last 15 years and the last 2 years have been horrendous. Work colleagues are fantastic and give there all but those above do not give a damn we are just a number. Take care of yourself Richard. I have thrown in the towel and gone for early retirement. Not worth my health any more. X

[@rebblespad1]

As a manager in Social Care myself, this worries me. It seems that is higher than high that has set these targets. Start copying in your bosses to every email you answer. Also tell them you want a stress risk assessment, and your mental health and capacity to come to work is at risk.

[@Karenattheplot]

I resigned from banking because wasnt coping with the stress of work and home. I dont think my job was mega hard its just i only did 17 and half hours a week and started finding it hard to keep up with all the training and new things they kept starting. Perhaps you need to rethink your house move to Wales again? I'm sad to say this but i don't think you'll beat them. Hopefully the health team will take care of you. Sorry for rambling but i care about you.

[@leslyestych68]

You had a damp tramp😂 well sometimes needs must. Hang in there, this too shall pass. Xxx

[@karenpeace8679]

May I offer to consider documenting what you do for your own records as evidence, that your time is filled already to the maximum. That you are willing to do additional work should time allow. Also to evidence the conversations that you have with your managers about your concerns. Also seeking legal advice and regarding workplace bullying.

[@RichardandPaul]

Everything I do is recorded on the computer systems. They can readily access this.

[@rebblespad1]

Also, I would ask what your situation is regarding you being a receptionist, rather than the other role, which you help with, but don't get paid for. They have a duty of care to look after your mental health. What worries me is them taking a week as an example or your workload, almost saying you have the time to do the extra five hours work. This is why`I suggested copying your bosses into your emails. Then they can see how many you deal with on a daily basis. Also, ask for a copy (if you haven't got one) of your contract/job description. (or better yet, pull one of the internet for your company before you ask for one.......Good luck, I'm glad you are feeling a bit better about it.l The other alternative is you agree to do the extra work, but don't do the extra you do for free.....see how that pans out. You're like me though, too many work ethics in your head and pride in your work. Sorry, I'm a bit all over the place with it!

[@Debbieanne51]

I commented earlier but it seems to have gone.

[@sammorris75]

First!! Mwah! Xxx

[@fosfool3773]

It sounds like your company is owned by a private equity group. That's how they treat their employees. They want people to quit so they can hire people cheaper or not at all. Hang in there, find the opportunity!!!😊

[@Iseeyou-2-z7s]

Get out. (Before they question your ability. They will) In my experience of working for social services for over 25 years, I had to get out. Best decision I ever made. It’s a toxic environment that will make you poorly. I know what I’m talking about. THEY DON’T CARE.

[@RichardandPaul]

I'm certainly not going to leave yet....my usual workload is manageable and I'm pretty much self supervised. My immediate colleagues that i see daily are lovely.....I will have to navigate through this situation to it's conclusion. Plus, I need the money.

[@Iseeyou-2-z7s]

@@RichardandPaul In that case. Write everything down. Dates, names, times, conversations etc… I see a constructive dismissal in progress. I think you know how to proceed. My very best wishes to you.