Working parents?

CaroleCr

Is anyone else here a single parent, working full time as well as care for their child...if so please tell me how you do it as I'm finding it impossible to find any employer that is happy to accommodate me

Louweb93

Hi, Im a single mum and I work 35 - 40 hours a week, leaving the house at 7am and not returning until 6:30/7pm.

I'm employed as a Personal Assistant and am lucky my boss gives me unpaid time off for my sons appointments. He is 2 and a half and has Cerebral Palsy. He goes to full time nursery which he loves and I pay for.

Most employers can be accommodating if you are honest. How many appointments do you have to go to? Can you use holiday for the appointments? Can you make the time up? etc...Always worth saying you will use your work holiday for the time off.

If you would like more information or have questions, feel free to contact me

Jean_OT

This website might be of interest: http://www.workingfamilies.org.uk/articles/the-waving-not-drowning-campaign/

CaroleCr

Thank you Jean

CaroleCr

Lou, I do all of that but have been declined roles, sidelined, had contracts ended and now probation extended because of my commitments...this is with both large and small companies. I worked over 20 years prior to this problem without issue and the roles are similar so I can't believe that it is 'just me'. My son has multiple issues and I also have to negotiate with the school regarding his SEN and other problems there. I make up all my time but it can range from 1 to over 6 hours per month. If its an appointment where I need a whole day I'll take holiday or occasionally carers leave. It's just very tough and even employers that you think would be understanding haven't been.