Help with Accused Harassment?

Question

I have been in my job for just over a year (me full time and 2 part times workers). After 2 weeks of starting the part time memebers of staff went off sick for 2 months, leaving me to work on my own in the office with little training in my first months of emplyment. She was back for 1 off 3 in for 2 off for 2 in for 3 weeks and has been off ever since. She is now saying I am whats made her ill and been bullying her (surely I couldn'y have caused 2 months of greivence in my first 2 weeks?!). the member of staff I replaced was on long term sick for 18 months before being offered volentry redundancy. I feel that this is exactly what is happening now, I always thought we were friends before I found out about this harrasments she ling against me earlier this month. I had been looking for another job (unrelated) and i have handed in my notice. Can the case against me follow out of the company? Will she have to return to work if she's claiming the only reason she can't work is because of me? if it can follow me, is my new employer able to sack me over it? Its feeling like my worlds crumbling, btw I'm only 20 in my 1st job and this woman is in ther 50's. Thank you.

Answer 1

First, sorry but I'm in the USA so I can't say for sure. I am sorry. The laws here a such that no, an employer cannot give that information to a new company. Particularly if it's never proven. Secondly, this woman would have to go to the courts and have you prosecuted for it to become known. You do have the advantage of already being ready to leave. The flaw is that she's going to think she's won. Which I believe is what is really bothering you. I'd ask for a meeting with a supervisor and this woman. Ask for them to mediate because you don't want mis-understandings and discourse in your workplace. When you're all there, tell the woman that you're sorry if anything you've said or done was mis-interpreted and ask her to please state firm, specific incidents so you know which behaviors to monitor within yourself. Let her know that you are new to the workplace and as she's more mature you'd love to learn from her. Do all of this in front of your boss. If she has examples it's gonna suck. But you acknowledge and apologize and learn something new for your next job. If she doesn't or she does but they are ridiculous, your boss will see that and you'll be vindicated. I don't think you have been harassing her, but maybe you are like I was at your age, bit exuberant.... This is your chance to change that and fix any issues. Look at it as a learning experience and a chance to be better for the next job.  

Answer 2

i dont think it can follow you. it would have to be proved (which it wont) ...plus youre quiting anyways