(I’m 21 for context and live with friends not with parents)
My mother called me last night and explained my Grandma, who lives in Poland and I only see once a year, who has alzheimer’s, is falling into an increasingly bad condition. She was taken into the hospice and she could die any time within the next week or two.
As a result (without consulting me which I admit wasn’t ideal) my Mother has booked me and my brothers to go with her to see my Grandma for five days next week. Now I work part time (I’m a student), but it’s an entertainment venue and as it’s currently a school holiday, we get pretty busy. I explained the situation to my supervisors at work and their response was ‘you should’ve let us know sooner’, (proving they didn’t listen whatsoever).
I apologised profusely for the late notice but explained the situation in full. Ive basically been told – either come in the days I’m rota’d in for or be fired. The lack of compassion kinda took me back. I’ve worked at this place since October and FREQUENTLY get told I’m one of the hardest workers at the place. I also have easily enough holiday accrued for the 5 days I’d need off.
I really don’t wanna lose this job as I enjoy it, and it could take months to find another job. On the other hand, I can’t explain to my mother that I wont go and see my dying Grandmother. (On top of the fact my Mum paid for the tickets already). I also feel like I’d probably regret it if I don’t go. What’s the chance/legality of them actually firing me? (I’m in the UK).
Also worth noting I have not had a single disciplinary issue or as much as a telling off, in the 7 or so months I’ve worked here.