B8LW110: Maria is employed as a lecturer at Waterford University. She suffered from depression in her teens for which she received treatment: Employment Law Case Study, DBS, Ireland

Maria is employed as a lecturer at Waterford University. She suffered from depression in her teens for which she received treatment but has had no recurrence since then. Over the last year, however, she has had increasing difficulties with Michael, her Head of School. Michael has overloaded Maria with work and subjected her to constant criticism. Originally the negative comments related to Maria’s job performance, but more recently it has extended to her appearance, manner of speech, and interpersonal skills.

Maria has become increasingly upset and stressed by Michael’s behavior, and now lives in dread of going to work. She feels that her working conditions have become intolerable and that nothing she does will ever be right for Michael. She is unable to sleep and is now on anti-depressants. Last month, matters came to a head. Michael verbally attacked Maria at a staff-student meeting, humiliating her and reducing her to tears. Maria subsequently made a formal complaint to the University but received no response, other than a formal acknowledgment.

Maria now feels that things are being made difficult for her at every level of the University and that this is part of a deliberate attempt to force her out. She feels that she is at a breaking point and is seeking legal advice as to whether there is any avenue open to her to prevent further bullying and to seek compensation for the distress she has suffered.