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Original poster

What hours to ask for and what to expect...... Really Stressing

13 replies

oinker · 13/02/2013 15:53

I'm really stressing -

I've put my request to work flexible hours too. Am I being unrealistic -

2 x 8hr shifts per week - term time only -

U all seem to be doing lots more.
I'm due to return in 7 weeks and I've been told we need to negotiate but have heard nothing back from them.

Unfortunately, being in the police and frontline is a major issue. Been told that I need to be more flexible. Because I've been off for over 2 years (2 kids) my previous job/ role is gone. I have no idea where I am going back to all I know is it'll be in London and no idea what role?!
It's making me feel ill.
My 18mth old isn't even in childcare yet. I have no idea what to request from a childcare provider - hours or days. I'm in limbo!

Any advice PLEASE

OP posts:
Salbertina · 13/02/2013 17:12

It comes down to what is "reasonable" for the business ie the police. You need to think of the business case for you doing this work pattern- effect on colleagues, service etc and how to mitigate against any problems. Anything you can compromise on?

Original poster
oinker · 13/02/2013 17:39

No not really. I can negotiate on which days of the week I work but hubby is on shifts too. I have to have a set pattern. DH has to negotiate his with mine when I get mine.
Spoke to several childminders, none would accept the uncertainties of looking after little one. Problems are always start and mainly finish time with police. I have to be taken out of any childcare duties on my work days as there is no guarantee of when I will finish my shift.

OP posts:
princessx · 14/02/2013 16:14

Do you have any colleagues in a similar position? You could ask how they've made it work?

Re child care have u heard of mum's help? U can find them on gumtree. They r not qualified or anything, but if you found someone you trusted they may be able to manage the gap between child care finishing and you getting back from work?

Original poster
oinker · 15/02/2013 11:57

There really aren't many females that go back after children Hmm the ones that do go back are of high ranks and are mostly in office positions.
Most women I know with kids were in office type jobs but are now being displayed because of the Winsor report.
Frontline first - basically. It's not family friendly at all.
I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I only have 5 years left b 4 getting my 30 years in. I want the pension but not sure the stress and agro is worth it. Sad

OP posts:
Salbertina · 15/02/2013 12:15

Au pair?? At least that option is flexible and affordable...

Original poster
oinker · 20/02/2013 21:43

HR manager visiting me Friday. Can't say I'm looking forward to it Confused

OP posts:
TheChimpParadox · 21/02/2013 12:10

Oinker - I posted this on your other thread.

You need to go and see the Duty's Office - (are they still about ?) find out what you will be doing - response team or whatever.

You need to get your child care sorted asap if going for a day acare nursery they will want set days each week - so you will have to plan job hours round that.

So say nursery is Mon & Tues - work every shift with your team that falls on a Mon & Tues - exception of a Tuesday night shift - as you will have no child care on the Wed.

If you have a DH or partner that can have kids at weekend - work every Sat & Sun with your shift - including a Friday night shift.

This way the job has you at peak time and you get only two days childcare at nursery.

Don't know about the term time only however - remember there is a balance between your needs and what the organisation needs .

TheChimpParadox · 21/02/2013 12:13

I see that your DH works shifts aswell - the organisation will not want to lose you with such experience.

Original poster
oinker · 22/02/2013 09:51

AngryAngryAngryAngryAngry
Well didn't see this coming -
No part time work at all! Full time or nothing!!
If i don't like it i have two options resign or lengthen my career break until MY circumstances change. I have a 20 month old and a 3 year old!
Apparently, this is going to be the case for any application to part time work!!!! Statutory or otherwise.
Am fuming - AngryAngryAngry
Will be seeking legal advice -

OP posts:
TheChimpParadox · 22/02/2013 10:03

Blimely. - speak to your Fed re

TheChimpParadox · 22/02/2013 10:03

Fed Rep even !

Original poster
oinker · 22/02/2013 10:12

Don't really trust them.....
A colleague has advised me to head straight for top dog leagl lawyerCamilla Palmer -

I can't beleive this is happening....22 years Ive given to the police.... All I want is 5 years part -time........

OP posts:
TheChimpParadox · 22/02/2013 10:16

Far enough. Can 't believe that they turn down PT work. Glad I am well out. Good luck. PM me if you want to talk job.

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