Advice on what to do during probationary period - childcare/wfh

[Cherryblossom200]

Hi there,

I need a bit of advice please. I've started working in a new job - five weeks in and still in my probationary period. I have an office job and have a laptop.

My company is quite large, but I work for a smaller part of the business working in a tiny office with only 15 people. The majority are working from home, but my manager and about 5 others continue to work in the office. None have young children, however I do.

I live in a tier 4 area with some of the highest cases in the country. I have no idea what will happen with the primary schools in my area, but whatever the decision I'm going to struggle with childcare if I go into the office.

My co-workers seem to want people to go into the office despite the government's warning. I think they don't like working from home.

I can't leave my daughter with family.

I don't know what to do as I'm deeply concerned it's going to affect the outcomes of my probationary period.

I was going to speak to the Hr team to ask their advice but I don't want to look like I'm causing drama so early on.

Any advice please? 😬

It's not drama - everyone will be aware of the situation. Speak to your line manager and/or HR.

Thanks I wouldn’t be so worried by my line manager seems to like people in the office, I’ve just found out al the schools in my area will be closed until at least 18th Jan, so have no choice but to work from home now.

Good luck, hope it turns out ok!

I think you should just speak to someone - line manager/HR - this is not your drama! Good luck, I hope they're human - if not no panic but I'd start looking for a new job with humans.

Thanks Tarnished 🤣 I'm planning on looking for a meeting job in January anyway. I don't like the way they've handled this, plus there are other issues. I just need to bide my time until I find something else 👍