FULL TIME OR NO TIME...

[NEmum]

Returning to work in October from mat leave. I want to work 16 hours over 2 days rather than 37 hours.

My employer has stated that I can only return to work "full time or no time". I know that they can't say this without considering my case on an individual basis but I'm getting ready for a bit of a fight! Can anyone share their experiences of how they managed to get reduced hours under similar circumstances?

For context my employer is a local authority & I work in child protection. I'm prepared to compromise but want to initially go for what will work best for our family... would really appreciate any help/advice!!

What reason have they give you?

I haven't submitted my formal request yet so this is just their general response & no reason given. In the past they have said that they can't accommodate part time work but then the union usually get involved and they give in; there are lots of part time workers there.

were you part time before mat leave?

No I was full time.

that could be part of the problem - you want a fundamental change to your hours - so you will need to go through the 'requesting change' process, which they need to consider.

Put in your request and go from there. Wait til they turn you down

i'm not a lawyer, used to be on a staff committee, so my advice might not be right!)

Look at the 8 statutory reasons that an employer can reject a flexible working request. Make sure your application shows why these reasons don't apply in your case.

you see.... thats good advice!!

Ha thanks everyone!!