Demotion after returning to work.

[dippylongstocking]

Its a long story so here's the short version:

After having my dd i went back to work part-time (previously full-time) at the same company, in the same position. I have been doing these hours for over 6 months, but it has now been decided that i must be demoted to a lower paybracket because i no longer work enough hours to fulfil my job requirements.

This means that i will be losing nearly £100 a month and so will struggle to pay childcare fees.

I understand that a lot of big companies are tightening their belts a bit, but I have been working for this company for ten years and i feel like its a bit of a slap in the face tbh.

I was informed of this on friday and they want me to sign my new contract tomorrow morning so my new pay will begin this month.

AIBU to refuse to sign a new contract until i get the reasons for the demotion in writing? It has not been made clear to me exactly what my new role will involve and i don't think it will look good on my cv unless i have something to back up the reason for the demotion.

Can they fire me for being a bit awkward? As much as this has upset me, i don't want to lose my job over it.

YANBU. Don't sign it until you have reasons in writing and get some legal advice.

Don't sign it full stop no reason is good enough. Ring the acas helpline tomorrow.

Think you have 12-13 weeks before have to sign new contract.

Waits for someone who knows about these things..

Bumbley is right. Sign nothing without full, written explanation which you then take advice on. I have a strong suspicion this is totally unlawful, though it may well depend on finer detail you'll need to discuss with a lawyer, or if that's not an option then at least CAB.

Definitely ring acas as they will be able to tell you exactly what action to take.

However, from what I understand the employer has to make allowances for flexible working or a change in contract as far as is possible. They can refuse your request completely if it does not fit in with the day to day running of the job. So technically they can demote you if you are no loner fulfilling the demands of the job you left or they can tell you there isn't a position available other than the full time position you left.

I'd expect that this would be more of an immediate issue rather than one which has appeared after six months. Did you put your request in writing and did they respond? Do you have a contract for the six months you have worked? I don't know if the maternity leave rights would cover you after 6 months.

And don't sign anything until you have complete clarity on the situation.

Thanks guys. will definitely not be signing the new contract tomorrow! I'll get some proper legal advice and see whats what before i do.

Defo seek legal advice as others had said, but I don't quite understand to be honest. Surely working less hours = less pay?

Sorry, I mean less per hour.

Ah right. That's not on at all

and don't say sorry it's me being thick, everyone else got what you meant ha

Seriously, call the ACAS helpline. you are entitled to 3 months notice of a contractual change.

m.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2042

Whoops m.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2042