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I Hate Body Shaming

I was physically assaulted at work. I work in elderly care so it's kind of too common. When I went to get it checked out I was basically told that I was a "big strong girl" so what was I even complaining about. This I overheard while I was sitting, crying and in shock in the waiting room.
Picklebobble2 · 56-60, M
Assaults during the course of your work are unacceptable.
It's right that you should make as much noise is necessary in order that policy changes to minimise it ever occurring again !
The idiot who made those remarks should be advised that they were belittling and insulting !
It is a sad fact that if you have to deal with clients in the social care arena, there's every chance that at some point an assault is likely to occur.
Whether it's work with youngsters or with disabilities or adults.
The possible reasons why are complex and numerous.
But, you should be allowed to go about your job without the fear of being attacked by your client group !
And the person who made that remark should be verbally warned by management, 1. Because they were indiscreet in doing so in a work setting. And 2. Because you and your colleagues should feel openly supported in following correct procedures following an assault !
If it were me, I'd have a descreet word with the person who said it.
Tell them you heard what they said and feel that it was unprofessional to make such a remark to ANYBODY but you, and that should it occur again you would not hesitate to make a formal complaint to their immediate line manager and insist they act upon it.
Starsandfire · 31-35, F
@Picklebobble2: I plan to formally complain
Picklebobble2 · 56-60, M
@instagramcat: I was in this line of work for nearly 30 years so i know how it goes !
If you are part of a union or professional body, go through them.
If management didn't take it seriously before, they'll have to with folk acting on your behalf !
Livingwell · 61-69, M
Really sorry this happened to you. I know some patients can be quite violent.

Based on some of the comments below, most don't understand that an elderly care facility has many types of people including those with demntia. They can become quite violent and are very strong. No policy an protect you as they lash out randomly. If it happens enough the person is transferred to another facility.

It would appear the idiot at the treatment facility is unaware of the reality of care facilities too. Demeaning patients is a termination offense. I would let the manager of the department know what you experienced so it won't happen again.

Good luck to,you and I hope you find some justice.
greenmountaingal · 70-79, F
People tend to blame victims because if they can believe you did something wrong, or if they can minimize it, they feel less afraid themselves.

I've been a victim of various assaults in my life, at work and elsewhere. You've got my sympathy...and my respect.

You certainly have a right to complain to management about this.
Starsandfire · 31-35, F
@greenmountaingal: I'm sorry you've suffered also. I definitely will
SW-User
That is awful. I can't believe that someone would say something that insensitive.
Starsandfire · 31-35, F
@Laifu1: I should have said something at the time, but en hours into a shift and in shock, it was too much. I'm not going to let it go though
Sicarium · 46-50, M
You were physically assaulted by an elderly person...?
Starsandfire · 31-35, F
@Sicarium: something like that, yes
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