A dental nurse in Edinburgh has been awarded $31,000 (￡25,254) in compensation for bullying and disrespectful behavior from colleagues.
The employment tribunal ruled that Maureen Howieson, who worked at Great Junction Dental Clinic, was subjected to “rude” and “demeaning” treatment from dental therapist Jisna Iqbal, creating a hostile work environment.
Howieson, 64, who has over 40 years of experience in dentistry, was transferred to reception due to arthritis. Reportedly, the relationship with Iqbal became strained shortly after he joined the clinic in July 2023.
Although Iqbal qualified as a dentist in India, he did not hold the required registration to practice dentistry in the UK and had been in charge of reception while Howieson was on sick leave.
During this time, Howieson accused Iqbal of being arrogant, rolling his eyes during conversations, and refusing to perform certain tasks.
Another dentist at the clinic, Dr. Daniela Silsch, supported her allegations, noting that Iqbal refused to perform tasks such as cleaning the area before patient examinations, insisting he was a “dentist.”
In September 2024, Howieson broke down in tears at work and told colleagues she felt “reduced to a cleaner.” The situation allegedly escalated when Iqbal refused to leave the reception area to allow Howieson to begin her shift.
Despite acknowledging that Iqbal had previously caused problems, clinic owner Dr. Farri Johnson Witayatir failed to take effective action. The tribunal ruled that Howieson suffered bullying and isolation, and that the clinic failed to address her concerns.
Judge Ronald Mackay ruled that the clinic’s handling of the matter was “unacceptably negligent” and resulted in adverse workplace outcomes. He added that Grand Junction Dental Clinic repeatedly breached Howieson’s contract, constituting unfair constructive dismissal.
The compensation award was for the stress, panic attacks, and financial hardship Howieson experienced before resigning.
Both Iqbal and the clinic have been contacted for comment.