Civil Service Transfers

[HolyMoly81]

Hi All
I recently got promoted within the civil service, the job however added an extra hour each way commuting each day. This has obviously taken a toll but now my wife has had to change her working hours and as such we are looking at some hefty childcare issues.
I don't have a probation period in this new role as I was already a civil servant for a couple of years. My question is will I be able to ask for a transfer on these grounds as I have only been in the new role for 5 months?
Thanks

[Lightgreenblue]

Do you mean a transfer back to your old position and department?

[HolyMoly81]

I was an AO but have recently been promoted to EO so I was thinking of asking for a transfer as an EO as that is now my substantive grade. I am just anxious that it is a bit cheeky.

[HolyMoly81]

It is basically that I need to work closer to home

[IrenetheQuaint]

Are there any vacancies at EO level at the place you want to work? If so, probably worth a conversation.

[HolyMoly81]

I appreciate the advice thanks

[Lightgreenblue]

It's unlikely there will be a policy specific to this situation. The civil service tends to be quite flexible and it's all about "manager discretion" and "business need".

As a PP said, if there are vacancies at your new grade in the preferred location then definitely worth a conversation. It may not be ideal from your new manager's perspective but if you go to them and explain it's not that you have a problem with them or the role, but that you're finding it tough for personal reasons, they will hopefully be understanding.

Another option might be to change your working pattern so that you can arrive earlier or leave later, or ask to work at home or at the other office a couple of days a week?

[HolyMoly81]

As far as I am aware there are positions as I keep in touch with my old co workers. The issue is that unless I reduce hours I cannot make it back to my home town on time to pick my child up unless I arrange for extra nursery which both mean more money loss it's a lose lose. The thing that concerns me is that my manager is going to basically say that it isn't an issue he can do anything about. I know it won't happen it's just that I am from a retail background and they didn't care for their people. As I said I just feel cheeky, I was going to ask about remote working but I highly doubt they would go for that.

[Lightgreenblue]

Is there anyone at the old office you can speak to about a transfer to one of the vacant positions? Do you know the HEO? Could you have an off the record conversation about what might be possible? Then at least you know where you stand.

Some managers will be more understanding than others in these situations. It's unlikely they'll go out of their way to help with a transfer - they'll probably see it as your responsibility to sort something out - but you may get lucky.

The managers I've worked for would usually be more open to a conversation about different working patterns/remote working than about moving roles. It's definitely worth a try if it would make the situation easier at home.

BTW you're probably already doing this but if you see positions at your new grade in your new location - apply. You'll be in a strong position as a level transfer (rather than applying on promotion). If they ask why you're looking to move so soon just be honest.