HOSPITAL workers have reported “appalling levels of bullying and harassment” including having to tell their bosses every time they go to the toilet, Unite said today.

The 59 porters at University Hospital Southampton say they also have to notify management if they are on their period for additional toilet time.

Managers have removed chairs to prevent them from sitting down when waiting to move patients and denied them water breaks even in hot weather.

They began balloting for strike action this week. Voting closes on November 11, with strikes planned as early as next month.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The fact that Southampton hospital management thinks it is in any way acceptable to deny workers toilet and period dignity is shocking.

“Unite is fighting for a safe culture, safe staffing levels and a safe working environment for the good of all patients and staff.”

Unite said that while many of the porters have resorted to using food banks due to their low pay, they report that agency staff are prioritised for shifts attracting increased rates, including weekends and nights.

Jo Atkins-Potts, head of communications and campaigns at national charity Bloody Good Period said: “No-one should have to disclose personal information like their menstrual cycle to access basic rights at work.

“This invasive and dehumanising behaviour has no place in any workplace and we fully support efforts to end it.”

Unite regional officer Kate Attwooll said: “Unite’s members are simply calling for their basic human rights to be respected and for patients to be treated safely.

“Patients will be concerned about the threat of strikes but this dispute is entirely the result of the appalling manner in which the hospital’s management is treating its workers.”

The hospital was contacted for comment.