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Alternative suitable job after maternity

2 replies

Makako · 23/02/2012 10:05

I am a Manager and my flexible working of 3 days per week has been turned down, I appealed, same outcome. There were some business reasons given, as we all know, it's so easy for any company to make them up. That's not why I'm posting though.

My cover was made permanent in the role and I was offered another post (2 grades below but got to keep my pro-rated wages) on her team (awkward!). I accepted it as my return date was fast approaching and had to think of finances etc. but was promised that they will look for something more suitable in status if and when opportunities come up. Now, there are other posts going on the same level I was before and I am told excuses as to why they can't consider me. They are both merit lists so not actual positions as of yet but they won't even put me on them. One was advertised while I was on leave but was never told about it; the other I was on, but was removed when I was promoted.

I know I had the right to return to the same job I left, which I was offered but I couldn't commit to it full-time, so had to turn it down. Who decides what is a suitable alternative? Is it worth making a complaint for not getting considered for similar jobs because "they're not keen on part-timers"? Would it get me anywhere? I feel like I am not given any responsibilities and all of a sudden I'm not capable because I have a child and work part-time. I don't want to make things harder for myself but I hate being pushed aside like a piece of dirt. What would you do?

Thanks in advance for anyone taking the time to reply.

OP posts:
RockChick1984 · 23/02/2012 23:46

I'm not clear from your post, are you full time or part time? Was your flexible working request granted in the new job but not your previous position?

Makako · 24/02/2012 14:25

Sorry, will try to make it clear.

Before mat leave I was full-time and I was refused to go back to my Manager role part-time, they told me that I can't do that specific role part-time due to a big project that is coming up so they need someone in the office all the time. I was offered another post instead part-time, which is 2 grades below and was told that there was no other role vacant at the time. i had to accept it as i have bills to pay and thought that was the only option.

However, since I have returned I found out that there are other Manager roles going but I'm not considered for them and getting excuses. Some were advertised while I was on maternity (still haven't been filled and the interviews happened after I was refused part-time hours as a manager so they could have told me about them). BTW there are other part-time managers in our contract so it's not like there is a blanket 'no'.

I know I have no rights to just any job as i was offered my substantive role back with exact same terms and conditions but the lack of flexibility and now these excuses are really bringing me down. I have always been a hard-worker and worked my way up by jumping through all the hoops and now I'm told to get back in line. It just seems unfair. Oh, and the pity looks I get from my co-workers is also annoying. Like i haven't put up a fight against them!

I know if I complained there would be even less support...I just have to suck it up I guess.

OP posts:
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