The TEFL Workers' Union (IWW) is raising legal funds to support Marina, an online English language teacher and alleged whistleblower who was sacked after raising health and safety concerns.
Marina claims she was sacked after raising concerns that the scheduling system was damaging teachers’ mental health.
Marina and her fellow workmates allege that the scheduling system used by the British Council and their outsourcing agency, Impellam, created a "feeding frenzy" that caused lack of sleep alongside stress and anxiety.
After raising these matters internally, Marina was dismissed due to "offensive" communications. She alleges that there was no process and that management failed to show any evidence of her saying anything offensive.
It is the position of the union that Marina was dismissed for raising her concerns. As such, the union maintains that she is afforded whistleblowing protections. The union is demanding reinstatement with back pay.
Alongside a legal case, there will be ongoing protests to support Marina. But justice, sadly, does not come cheap. Our employers have deep pockets and won't spare any expense in order to avoid being held to account.
All funds raised will go directly to Marina's legal fees.
Marina's is our fight. We all deserve a safe working environment and the right to speak up when we feel unsafe at work. Please donate generously.
If you work for the British Council and have any problems at work or would like to get involved in the campaign to support Marina, you can reach the union at [email protected]. Media enquiries should also be sent to the same address.