Employee manual (impossible)

[Guest]

I recently applied for a job working as a domestic cleaner. The original job description said several cleaners wanted for a large property within large grounds, the owner had six dogs so people good with and comfortable around dogs need apply. I negotiated two 10 hour shifts per week and one other cleaner was employed at 40 hours per week over 5 days and the owner mentioned maybe they would employ someone else too. After a 4 hour induction to see whether my cleaning was up to standard I then proceeded with two ten hour days. At the end of the final shift I was presented with an employee manual. I returned home and read the manual. Honestly, I’ve never read such nonsense, in my professional opinion as someone who is passionate about cleaning and has very high standards and a great eye to detail, I felt the manual was impossible for less than 7 staff a day. I emailed the owner that I didn’t think I could commit to the role as the manual was not achievable and the tone was condescending and I considered a bit mad. I’m happy to share the contents of the manual. Anyway I am now being held to ransom, the owner and ceo of a high profile company has been emailing me, threatening me and has stated will not pay me until I return the manual. I have no issue returning the manual but I find this to be completely unprofessional and I worry for anyone taking on this role without questioning the legality of this so called manual. Also does anyone have any HR experience into whether legally I am obliged to return the manual. The contents of the emails I have received have been how powerful they are, how rich they are, how someone like me should never dare to challenge them on their manual, threatening me lawyers and the police. I just think this is insane and wholly unnecessary. I also was required to sign a non disclosure agreement which I haven’t and I haven’t even received a letter or email confirming an offer of employment. Please any advice is greatly appreciated.

[ULA]

Having no sight of the manual, i cannot comment although it sounds like it is not what I would potentially consider as a "conventional" staff manual with policies and procedures such as disciplinary, grievance, sick pay etc.

When you were offered the job it seems like nothing was confirmed in writing but I assume you were verbally told at least hours and rate of pay? If you have no intention of returning to work for the person I suggest you email, agreeing to the return of the manual and confirming that since there was a verbal offer of employment you are due xx hours at £xxx agreed rate of pay for the hours that you have worked.