Our Experiences with Consultation

For almost half a year now we, the UBG Heidelberg, offer labour-related counselling. We began at the same time as the Covid pandemic and the lockdown measures in Germany did, in April 2020. It was immediately clear the situation would present a crisis for employed persons, and we wished to offer our solidarity. The decision to create the hotline proved to be a success.

In that time approx. 10 people have reached out to us, and we have worked together with them on strategies of how to proceed. As was expected, there were bosses who had used the pandemic as an excuse to not pay out salaries, or announce immediate or unlawful dismissals. We stepped in to explain the legal aspects of the situation, though of course whether to formalise the labour conflict or not remains up to the employee themselves. (In most cases we rely on collectively discussing the case at hand and researching further about the specifics of the legal situation. For more complicated case we reach out and rely on professional advisors.)

Beside short-term support of relevant information we have had cases in which we remain active on a case long-term, and continue to do so till now. Our support continues as long as it’s needed and wished for. We also offer help with practical issues such as interacting with the employment office and job center, as well as other issues as they occur. Our focus remains however on problems related to workplaces and improving the conditions there.

No matter how extensive or small your inquiry may seem, we look forward to hearing from you. Our goal is to work on your options and next steps together. Don’t let your boss mistreat you! Call us, stop by, organise!