A shop worker claims she lost her job in the middle of the coronavirus crisis because of her responsibilities in caring for her mother.
Elizabeth Mackenzie, who lives with her mother who has multiple sclerosis, had been working at running shop Moti, in Clifton, since September.
However, the 43-year-old woman claims that on March 31 she was informed via email that she was losing her job, citing her caring responsibilities as one of the reasons for the decision.
The email - which has been seen by Bristol Live - said: "We have decided that considering your situation with regard to caring for your mother, coupled with our desire to re-structure Bristol, unfortunately there will not be a position for you within the business once things return to normal."
Ms Mackenzie, from Backwell, in North Somerset, claims she was never told her performance was an issue or was involved in any disciplinary proceedings.
She said: "They could have furloughed me to no cost to them, it is very upsetting, especially because of the way they did it.
"They didn't reply to phone calls or emails, it is very unprofessional and is completely unfair - they should be supporting me."
She added: "This has left me without a valuable source of income, has caused me and my family a great deal of stress and as far as I’m aware goes against the government's initial advice to retain staff members."
Ms Mackenzie said the store has since advertised for a full-time team member.
At the outset of the coronavirus outbreak Ms Mackenzie was required to self-isolate because she is a carer for her mother and had to be shielded.
"I was told by the store manager that this was absolutely fine and that my job would be safe," the shop worker continued. "This was reiterated to all staff.
"I was a key member of a small, close knit team. I always did my upmost to help other customers, due mainly to my love of running.
"I was polite, punctual, hardworking and got on well with the rest of the team.
"I even took it upon myself to start a local and free running group out of the store in my spare time."
Ms Mackenzie said her caring responsibilities never impacted her work and, for example, she never had to leave early.
Moti has been contacted for comment, but is yet to respond.
