A recent Employment Relations Authority decision has upheld a personal grievance claim for constructive dismissal after an employee resigned following roster changes.

The employee (after childbirth) applied for reduced hours and this was agreed.  She worked these reduced hours for six years.

The employer then decided to re-organise the section she worked in and wanted her to work a different roster to fit in with other staff.  The employee tried to negotiate but eventually agreed to the new roster as the employer refused to approve her annual leave unless she agreed.  The new roster caused real problems because it conflicted with that worked by her husband (employed by the same employer).

She eventually resigned as a result, and the ERA awarded her three months lost wages and $10,000 compensation for hurt and humiliation.

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