Lack of support from work

[madmummy]

Hi
I'm so glad there is a section on here dedicated to work stuff. I went back to work full time 3 months ago . Work seemed to be going ok and I found it easier to not be with my son constantly. Work seemed like a break and I found myself looking forward to seeing him at weekends and evenings.
However, I have been having some probs with my manager and my GP has now signed me off sick and this has made me come to terms with the fact I have PNI and am not coping at the moment.
I work for the NHS and am really upset that I don't seem to be getting any help. I have asked to work full time but within normal working hours so that I can continue to breastfeed and it be compatable with nursery hours. This is what I'm doing now but I'm due to start a new job in August which will mean me working shifts including 1700-0200, 2200-0800, 122-2200 and occasionally 0800-1800. I have pointed out how difficult this would be to continue breastfeeding and they have suggested expressing milk in a room (which would be ok if I could express more than 1oz at a time). My boss has also suggested that I stop breastfeeding to reduce my stress!
I have been objecting to this since they changed my job while I was on mat leave but I'm not getting anywhere. I have now formally asked for flexible working hours.
I cant believe that I work for the NHS and am not being given any support. I have told them that I want to be back at work but am looking for some support to do this and no-one seems to be listening. Even my union was useless.
Not sure if anyone would have any advice on this situation but it's nice to be able to vent all of this
Thanks

[cheshire]

Hi Madmummy,

I foud it really hard after my first, going back to work as I was full time with a commute. Fortunately I managed to change jobs to be nearer home and then had my second (+ PNI). My husband also had a serious health scare so I went part time. I filled in forms re. part time and flexible working - same as yours probably. I think they have to come up with a pretty good reason to decline your request.

I got the flexibility I'm glad to say, which has meant that I have been able to continue with work, which is great as I love my job.

My advice would be to keep pushing for what you want
xxx

[winegirl]

Hi Madmummy

The thing is you would expaect the NHS of all employers to be more helpful!

You have done the right thing requesting felixble working hours formally. It is a shame they couldnt have sorted this for you without the need to do so, but they can only deny your application for a VERY good reason.

I agree with H, keep pushing for what you want hun. And let us know how you are getting on??

WG xx

[madmummy]

Things have improved.
Work have agreed to place me in a more family friendly job for the next 8 months. I am slightly worried about what will happen after that but at least there is one less thing putting pressure on me for the moment
Thanks for you help Hopeful and Winegirl
MM

[winegirl]

Hi MM

Thats great, at least they are taking it seriously. Try not to worry about what will happen in 8 months time, you dont know how you will feel or how life will pan out then, just try to make the most of what you have now xx

So please for you!

WG xx

[cheshire]

Brilliant x