asking for flexible working as a preceptorship nurse

[FruitCider]

Hi everyone! I joined about 4 months ago but only started to post today so please be gentle!

I'm just about to qualify as a nurse and have been offered a job that I really REALLY want to take. The hours are 07:00 - 20:30 3 days a week.

When I applied for the job through NHS jobs I ticked the flexible working box. I'm happy to work full time but really I need a fixed day off during the week otherwise the childcare costs will cripple us!

I went to do all the paperwork with HR last week and they told me to request it directly with the unit manager.... Is this right? Do they have to consider the request before I start the job? A bit worried they will just say no!

[SnuffleBadger]

Did you discuss what you ideally wanted your working pattern to be at interview?

HR are correct in referring you to your new line manager to discuss and it is likely that you will need to put your request in writing (there is usually a specific form to complete). You will need to give clear reasoning why you are making the request and the impact it will have if refused.

I would contact your new manager ASAP because what you are asking may affect the rest if the team and take some time to work out. Bear in mind that your request can be refused if the impact on the service/rest of the team will be too great.

[maisiejones]

Sorry about the rogue post. I've asked for it to be removed. 😚

[FruitCider]

No, they had my application in their hands but I was so nervous I forgot!

Maisy that's ok, how does your contract read? As its all dependant on the wording of your contract!

[FruitCider]

Sorry I forgot to say - the impact on the rest of the team is that they are likely to not have to work as many weekends and will have to cover that day more frequently. It's a huge team. They've just recruited 5 new band 5 nurses, to put it into perspective!

[SnuffleBadger]

Shame you missed the opportunity to discuss it at interview but nerves are a wonderful thing!

As a team leader myself I would want to know about this issue ASAP in order to try and resolve it to everyone's satisfaction. As a priority I would make contact tomorrow to start the flexible working process.

[CountryLovingGirl]

Speak to the line manager ASAP. I work in the NHS and we have a lot of ladies working with fixed days off. It is manageable if organised properly. I have worked fixed days for the last 12 years (I was part time, 3 days a week) but have, recently, gone back full time.

We have more a problem with nightshifts (we have only recently started doing nights). A few of the mums have husbands who work shifts and it has created a nightmare for them!

[FruitCider]

I'm ok with working nights but obviously wouldn't want to work the night before or after my fixed day off! I'll email them today, thanks for the advice!

[checkedcloth]

You just need to consider that your request might be difficult to implement due to skill mix.

If you and a number of newly qualified nurses have been appointed then the sister is going to have to ensure she spreads the junior workforce out as it were.

Speak to the sister directly, and I would suggest you offer a review date in 3 months. By that point the sister should be able to know if it's feasible to continue but if you work hard and become a reliable member of the team then she will also want to 'keep' you as it were.

Good luck

[hazelnutlatte]

If I was you I'd get it agreed in writing before you start the job. When I was a newly qualified nurse the ward I worked on would give the newly qualified staff the worst shifts, would ignore requests and dictate annual leave. I didn't stay there long!