Paid time off for appointments on variable hours contract

[Laura05]

Hi ladies,
Can anyone give me some advice?

I'm on a variable hours contract although I work 20hrs a week. I have two set days which have been verbally agreed (been working these set days since last year) due to childcare arrangements.
Does anyone know if I'm entitled to paid time off for appointments on these days?
I've tried changing appointments to mornings I'm not working but with scans, reflexologist and physio I'm struggling!
I assumed because I was on a variable hours contract then I wouldn't be paid but a friend told me that because it's verbally agreed that I work the two set shifts then I should be entitled to payment? I'm in a bit of a panic as it's my smp window just now and I'm missing 3days for appointments!
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[greenfolder]

you are entitled to paid time off for appts. if these have to be during your normal working time then it should be paid.

[Laura05]

Even if it's a variable hours contract? That's the bit I'm unsure of

[haveacupoftea]

In my company the general rule is that you get time for hospital appointments as you cant pick and choose the times. Reflexology probably wouldnt qualify for paid leave.

[Laura05]

Thanks. Reflexology tends to be a Tuesday which is a day I don't work but midwife, physio etc is normally Monday or Thursday which is the days I work. I've been trying to book physio for days I'm off but they're so busy and with having 2dc it's a nightmare!
Think I'll speak to my boss and see what he says. He can only say no I suppose x

[Newtoday]

Reflexology doesn't count, obviously.

The other pregnancy related appointments do. I don't think your boss can say no.

Does it depend on the nature of your work? How long has your current working pattern been this way?