Is there anything I can do?

[Frozenpeas]

I've been working for a hotel since July and was given loads of hours. My Fiance also worked there. I found out I was pregnant at the start of sept and about 4 weeks later my fiance left his job as they refused to give him his bonuses even though he'd earnt them and then changed his job description.

As soon as that happend my hours where cut right down to nothing. I haven't worked at all for a month and before that I would get a few hours every couple of weeks.

I phoned to find out if I was needed but they started coming up with excuses and saying the manager would call me back which she never did. I went in and no managers were there but the girl I spoke to said it's really busy with Christmas and she asked the manager if I'd be in anytime soon a few days ago and the manager just went quiet. I'm not certain but I think they may also have hired a new member of staff as there was someone different there the last day I worked and someone answered the phone one time who I didn't recognise and she didn't know me either.

My contract says "as and when the company requires me" - as in more when it's busy and no hours are guarenteed at certain quiet times but now isn't a quiet time. I don't know whether it's because my partner left or because I'm pregnant or maybe something else but I feel they're trying to get rid of me.

Is there anything I can do and is it really worth it? I've been through the legal stuff before when I left a job due to bullying and that took almost a year to resolve. I'm a bit worried about going there again but I'm really struggling now.

[CheekyChops]

Personally I don't think it's work it. They sound like a complete bunch of t*ssers and as you haven't had any work for a month, they do sound like they don't want you any more.

It is difficult of your contract states 'as and when required' and you would have to prove that any new staff member actually replaced you. Is it worth the hassle? I know its Christmas and you are pregnant but if it were me, I would give it up as a bad job.

[buildersmate]

Based on what you say, I think it is very likey to be linked to your pregnancy. They are concerned that the extra level of employment protection provided to pregnant staff may result in some financial liability or costs to them.
However the nature of your employment contract as it is, it is much easier to simply say, we've got no work for you. I don't believe there is anything you can do in that situation. Time to find alternative employment.

[Whoever]

I suspect your pregnancy may be something to do with it, but if your contract specifies that work will only be allocated as needed, I don't think there's anything you can do about it. If it's only a small hotel , they have to have reliable staff - their business depends on it - so the reality is that the hassle of coping with your maternity leave would be a major problem for them. I don't think you will be able to successfully pursue this, especially if you don't have a permanent contract, disappointing though this may be for you.