Toxic Work Culture Exposed: UK Boss Threatens to Cut Bonus After Employee Refuses to Work on Approved Day Off

Share News that unites, stories that inspire!

Toxic Work Culture Sparks Outrage as Boss Tries to Revoke Employee’s Day Off and Threatens Bonus

A glaring example of toxic work culture has gone viral after a UK manager allegedly tried to force an employee to work on her pre-approved day off — and threatened to cut her bonus when she stood her ground.

The controversy unfolded when workplace culture expert Ben Askins shared screenshots of the disturbing conversation on Instagram, igniting furious debates on social media about employee rights, boundaries, and managerial abuse.

📲 A Snapshot of Toxicity

The incident began when the manager asked the employee to fill in for a colleague. The employee politely responded:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ben Askins (@benaskins.official)

“Sorry, I can’t. I’ve got today booked off for plans with the kids. I’ll be back on Monday.”

The manager’s response stunned the internet:

“It wasn’t really a request TBH. I need you in by 11 am.”

As the employee refused to give in, the manager doubled down:

“I can revoke your day off and expect you in at 11.”
“We’ll talk about your commitment. If you’re not here, it’s coming out of your bonus.”

💬 Social Media Backlash

A viral case of toxic work culture has emerged after a UK boss threatened to cut an employee’s bonus for refusing to work on her approved day off.

The screenshots quickly made waves online, drawing heavy criticism from employees and HR professionals alike. The manager’s actions have been labelled a textbook case of Toxic work culture workplace behaviour.

Comments poured in:

“This is abuse of power, plain and simple.”
“This kind of toxic work culture is why people are quitting in droves.”
“Employees are not disposable. Respect their time.”

Others urged the employee to report the incident to Human Resources or even take legal action.

🧠 A Wake-Up Call on Toxic Work Culture

Experts say this case is part of a much larger pattern. Toxic work culture often manifests through blurred boundaries, guilt-tripping, and abuse of authority — all evident in this exchange.

Ben Askins, who posted the screenshots, remarked,

“Toxicity in the workplace thrives when we stay silent. This is a classic example of why we need stronger protections for workers.”

🔍 What Comes Next?

The identity of the employer remains unknown, but many are urging the affected employee to escalate the matter. Meanwhile, the story continues to fuel a wider movement demanding healthier work cultures, respect for personal time, and greater accountability for toxic leadership.

This incident is a reminder: Toxic work culture doesn’t just hurt morale — it erodes trust, productivity, and mental health.