Work - legal help needed

[consmom]

I split up with my partner recently and have a 13 year old son from previous relationship.

Work had booked me on a two day course prior to split and now I don't know how I'm expected to attend given that I have nowhere to send for my son for two nights. I was a single parent when I started the job six years ago. I live in Norfolk, my parents in Scotland, Sister in Manchester, ex passed away last year. My Boss (Bitch - no kids) seems to think I can foist him off anywhere

Can anyone tell me where I stand legally?

I used to have this dilemma when I was on my own. In fact it was a big reason why I stuck it out with my ex for so long as I was scared that if work needed me to work away, I could not. Luckily my boss is also a single dad since his wife passed away so was very understanding of my situation.

I've had to rely upon friends a lot. Is there perhaps a friend, or perhaps you are friendly with one of DS's friend's parents? I've had to be quite cheeky at times but needs must. I always make sure I return the favour whereever I can.

I don't think this is a legal issue and think making it such would be counterproductive. If you really have no choice then I'd just tell your boss outright that the answer is no. I guess part of the reaction will be based upon what the course is, how much the company will lose and how important it was to your job.

People without kids just don't understand our world. A friend of mine completely did not understand why I left my DD with a list of 6 telephone numbers and was checking my phone reguarly for messages or missed calls last week when I left her in charge for a few hours whilst we went for a drink. I know she's old and mature enough but as a parent you still get the "what if..." fear. Those without kids just simply don't have a clue, even if they think they do.

i thought at first you said 13 months - but then i re read 13 years...so is not so hard, surely??

when and where is the course? eg hotel, during school holidays etc?

could son come with you so you there at night with him?

is the night the issue here?
at 13 he presumably already spends time away from you?

with a friend?

or book him on a pgl adventure holiday or some such where he looked after night and day? he must have a sport or interest?
(if not -this might jsut get him one...)

Where is the course? Do you have to stay or could you come back home to sleep?

ps - for legal advice speak to working families -
www.workingfamilies.org.uk/ -
i thin maybe legal rights for time off etc extended recently to 18? not sure -ask them - before was under fives only unless disabled....

for pgl (try also yha and other such places

www.pgl.co.uk/PGLWeb/individuals/