Hi all
Hope everyone is well. Im just after a bit of advice about my working hours and how I approach a meeting I have.
So I started my new job in January, I'm pretty happy there. My manager referred me to occupational health due to my lupus, and my back problems. In the 8 months I've been there ive had two sickness absences (one for 2 days, one for 3 days), and this is a lot less than people have had for colds etc so I've not done badly so far.
Anyway, the occupational health doctor was really helpful. I have received his report and he's been very supportive (I didn't actually go in requesting anything, I merely just answered his questions). At work I am required to work 9 to 5 three days a week, and 8-4 two days a week (with an hour lunch) and then we all have to do a 10-6 shift, supposed to be once a month but lately it's been every couple of weeks. My journey to work is an hour and 20 mins on a good day (including a train and drive) so the 10-6 shifts are a nightmare for me. The doctor recommended flexibility in my working and pointed out my journey is long. He recommended home working on some days, but I don't think on my current team this can be accommodated. What I would rather do is work fixed hours, say 8.30 to 4 with half an hour for lunch.
But my question to you all is... I just want some tips on how to best make my case. I dont think I'm asking for anything unreasonable, but I know others on the team will possibly not be happy about it (not that it's their business). The thing is I never ever wanted to be in a job where I don't get home until 6.15 / 7.15. The truth is on those 10-6 days, I get up to take pain medication anyway so I'm already up early and working til 6 makes it a long day. I have no time to do anything after work and sometimes I just have toast for dinner.
How much information do you think I need to give? There are actually people that work similar hours just because they want to, so surely I have good grounds?
Any help appreciated x