Hi Bluebird
I'm very sorry to hear that your claim was dennied. I can imagine you are very frustrated and disappointed. I can't tell you what to do because every case is different but I can share some general personal knowledge of the systemcin my state, as this may help you get your head around the next steps.
It will be your employer's insurance company that has dennied your claim, not your employer. Sounds like this was done on medical grounds but it would be good for you to know if the insurer accepts the bullying occurred. If they do, you are half way there.
You should receive a letter from the insurer fully explaining the decision and outlining the appeal process. You also have the right to contact the insurer (there will be a claims officer assigned to your claim) and ask any questions that you may have. You can also request a copy of your file.
I would show the letter to your GP and see what he/she thinks. Your GP may be willing to challenge the decision (GPs have a lot of influence in the system) and may have been through a similiar situation in the past.
If you appeal, from my experience, there will be a conciliation meeting. It could be several weeks before this happens.
I have been to these types of conciliation meetings. The employer and their insurer can be there, you and a support person (generally not a lawyer) and an independent adjudicator.
Anything can happen at these meetings and small offers to settle the matter from employers can be made. It will depend on how strong their case is.
If no agreement can be reached a genuine dispute notice will be issued, which gives you access to the court system. This can take years. But again, only from my experience, often matters are settled on the steps of the courthouse.
Every case is different. If it were me, I would talk to my GP and a lawyer before making a decision. Then I would weigh this advice against the potential harm of a long battle to my health.
I hope this makes sense. Happy to keep talking.
Kind thoughts to you
