I took pulled into a garage as my car was about to conk out. As I was trying to get the car key off the ring of keys, the 3 mechanics were laughing and one said to me, “don’t worry about getting the car key off, leave it on with the house key, as he (referring to one of the other mechanics) will then be able to come into your flat, up the stairs and stand over your bed doing heavy breathing”. The 3 of them thought it was really funny.
I was so shocked, I froze. Then thought I can’t confront them as I can’t get away – my car wasn’t working – and I have to safely get out of here to get my kids in time from school.
After getting the kids from school I returned and managed to get my car to another garage.
A week later and I was still angry and upset, so I contacted the HQ for the garage. Amazing quick reply and then a male district manager called for 30 mins taking my complaint very seriously, and outlined the disciplinary actions he was going to take. After he investigated he discovered that this ‘line about leaving the house keys on’ is something the mechanics often say. Manager was very shocked. I said don’t sack them – get a copy of ‘Everyday Sexism’….
