To think a part time job should be part time?

[autumnbreez]

Do you work part time and if so how flexible are you expected to be? This is my second part time role since having my DC and I was employed to work 3 days per week (9-5). Since joining I’ve been asked to cover sickness/holidays and just random days my colleague cannot make it into the office. This is an office based job and the second time this has happened to me in a role. I have said yes every time I’ve been asked (mainly because I don’t like to say no) but I am a single parent and the stress of constantly trying to find childcare and not spending time with my child (long commute) is really starting to get me down. Is this normal for part time jobs? This is one of the reasons I left my last job.

Be polite, even apologetic but say no you can't do it. Make sure you also take the time off they owe you. Your DC are more important.

You need to practice some stock phrases in front of the mirror OP, ideally ones that don't give a specific reason they can try to offer solutions to. "Sorry, I'm not available tomorrow". Polite, sympathetic, but firm. If they keep going on the guilt trip, lots of commiserating "mmm"s and "yes, what a pain" then hold your line and repeat your practised phrase plus an "I hope you manage to get it sorted" if needed to end the conversation.

I agree with a PP, that by always saying yes you're doing the opposite of impressing them. They will become complacent towards the huge favour you've been offering and think of you as the go-to dog's body/a complete doormat.