Grieving driver loses daughter - and his job

Photo: Tim Bradley

Robert Parkisson and his grandson Zac.

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A GRIEVING bus driver on sickness leave since his daughter died in childbirth seven months ago has lost his job - for failing to give bosses a date for his return.

Robert Parkisson’s daughter Lisa (35) died in June two days after giving birth to her son Zac at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Since that day the 62 year old, from Chadderton has been off work with depression. Seven months to the day since Lisa’s death, Robert was handed 90 days’ notice by First Group after being told he would be losing his job for failing to tell them when he would be back.

Robert, who has worked at First for more than 10 years, said: “It is a disgusting way to treat someone while they are grieving for their daughter. I’m just a number to them. All they care about is me coming back to work.”

Robert spends time with his family: “The whole family is still grieving,” he said, “We rely on each other to get through each day. We are all devastated.”

Lisa, from Derker, gave birth and was later found unconscious by a midwife. A medical team was unable to revive her. Her baby son is now being cared for by a family member. A date for an inquest into Lisa’s death has yet to be finalised, as reports are still being prepared.

About his absence from work, Robert said: “First Bus keep asking me for a date to return to work but I just can’t give them one. When I’m carrying a bus full of passengers, I’m responsible for their safety.

How I feel at the moment, I just couldn’t drive the bus.

“Sometimes I lose concentration, sometimes I just break down into tears. Each day is different.

“I’ve spoken to three doctors and they all agree I’m just not able to give a return to work date.

“I will have to return at some point, but at the moment it just isn’t possible. I wish the company would understand that and be a bit more supportive.”

A spokesman for First Group wouldn’t comment on Mr Parkisson’s case, but said First has polices to support employees after bereavement.