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One of the Worst Ten Bosses:
The Expecting Exploiter
Story submitted by Melissa
I was a teachers aide in a support unit. I was not able to continue working in the class as I was in during my third trimester, so my principal created odd jobs for me.
I was requested to build a wall of full printing paper boxes & use a ladder, cleaning a store room that had not been cleaned since the 70's.
I needed to bend over, scrub & walk to the bottom of the school to the skip to throw things out. The skip cost the School money, so I had to stack it efficiently until she was happy.
I had complications so I asked my doctor for a letter to request I not do heavy lifting.
She started giving me warnings that I was dressed inappropriately, it was summer & I wore maternity clothing.
I was called into her office for liking a public photo of a friend going through IVF, then she berated & abused me for liking the public post.
After being bullied to return from Maternity Leave I eventually quit, went to uni & now am a director of my own business thanks to a new & amazing boss!
👀 Our Take
Forcing a pregnant employee into unsafe labour, then attacking her choices, is systemic bullying and discrimination.
🧠 Could this have been avoided?
Yes. Pregnancy support policies, safe work adjustments, and empathy would have turned this into a story of care.
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