Apologies if this is a bit vague, but I really would appreciate advice:
I work in a public sector organisation, been there about 18 months. I recently put in a flexible working request. I currently do 37.5 hours a week, 8.30-4.30. I asked to reduce to 8.30-2.30 so I can collect dc from school when they start Reception in September.
I put in my flexible working request in writing to the big boss about 6 weeks ago and got my answer verballyyesterday: No, because they need someone to cover those hours and it's just not going to be possible.
Today I spoke to my immediate supervisor who was astonished and confused - my supervisor is the one who actually creates the rotas and she cannot think of any good reason why it wouldn't be possible. Certainly no one had spoken to her about it.
Some bits of background:
- I absolutely believe my supervisor. She's an ex- union rep, straight up, been there a long time
- a few weeks ago I emailed big boss to express my concern that some safe working practices weren't being followed. He called me in for a meeting and it was evident that he was very angry with me - I don't think I did anything wrong, I think he didn't like that I'd questioned something
- possibly less relevant but big boss has a widespread reputation for treating different people very differently
Where can I go from here? Can I get them to give me the hours I want? Should I look for a new job?