I'm helping my DS' GF with an issue with her first job. It's a temporary contract which began in January. She is enjoying the role as a Marketing Assistant for an acting school. It's remote working aside from additional hours hours undertaking photo shoots at acting classes. She doesn't drive and these additional hours have been at very short notice each time. She is also required to use her own expensive photographic equipment for the task.
She would like to request politely whether more notice could be given so that she can plan how she will get there. She is currently often walking for an hour to get there and then has to walk home after. She is not comfortable walking home carrying a lot of expensive camera equipment. The contract states that she will be compensated for out of pocket expenses and I feel that it would not be unreasonable for her to request that this covers at least a taxi home in the dark in their duty of care to her. Does this seem reasonable? The contract does not state how additional hours will be paid either. I've advised that she should produce a spreadsheet of the hours she has worked both contractually and as extras hours at the shoots so there is a clear record of what she has done over the week.
I have no experience of this type of industry. Is this typical and does anyone have any experience of dealing with a similar situation in this industry? She is keen to make a good impression. She is giving it her all but is quite anxious about speaking up for herself in her first role. I've suggested that we compose a friendly email asking for support along these lines with the emphasis of how much she is enjoying the role. Any helpful suggestions appreciated!! Thanks for reading.