Absolutely gutted..have to pass by my dream job..help

SoniaE

Hi everyone..
I applied for a full time post about 2 months ago, within the NHS as a Healthcare Assistant working within the maternity department...my dream job...
Yesterday I received the letter telling me I had got it! I was overjoyed until I actually sat down and tried to work out my childcare arrangements. When I applied for the job, I had a partner, who said he would do the nights that I was working and also dropping off and picking up from childminders etc...now I have no partner. The position includes weekends, nights, earlies, lates etc all shift patterns, and I have 3 children aged 20months, 6 and 13.
I have looked into all the childminders that are available in my area (Bristol) and Im worried that none start before 7 or finish into the evening. How would I get my son from school, and what would I do with him til I finish work..which could be late evening, early hours of the morning etc. Same with my baby. My eldest would manage although I feel mean making her manage.
All I want is to better my childrens and my life..why are things so damn hard??
Are there any healthcare professionals who have experience of this, and who could give me an idea of what type of shifts (hours) would I be covering?
Any help appreciated..
Thank you so much
Sonia

sjaypink

hi, sorry dont know about the shift patterns, but how about putting an ad in your local paper for a childminder?


people are short of money at the moment so maybe a 'retired' childminder might respond?

hope you can sort it, good luck!

McKneff

This is not meant to be judgemental so please dont take offence.

the best way you can better your childrens lives is not to take this job unless you can get a live in Nanny, They wont appreciate being pushed from pillar to post at all times of the day and night and you being a wreck trying to juggle it all

Its not just when your at work ie if your on nights, who looks after the baby whilst you sleep?
its all very well having a bit extra money to give them a better life but you have to define 'better life' properly.

Good luck, whatever you decide.

trevormax

Have you asked the employer about flexible child friendly shift patterns?

Many public sector jobs have flexi time and if this job does, you may be able to plan your shifts around your child care needs.

toadyfrog

Does the company provide any childcare facilities

marrowgirl

Hi,

Congratulations on getting the job!
The NHS usually has good childcare facilities, especially in a hospital. Have a look at the hospital website or give HR a call and they should be able to put you on to the right people. You could probably ask them about the shift patten too.

M. x

clairec79

I know a few people who use aupairs to get round shift times in the NHS - do you have a spare room as an option?

SomeBozo

Congrats on the job, all I can say to help is that most insurance policies for OFSTED run private nurseries don't "cover" the staff until 7am.

Given the ages of your kids and the nature of the job, a private nanny that could cater for all your childs needs is the best option.

However the financial cost of this (I know, I have 7 kids!) can often outstrip earnings from a job (fortunatly my wife does not work and has a 7 seater!).

Good luck.

Bozo

duncans-mum_2

Hi, as marrowgirl said, the nhs are pretty good with helping sort out childcare. When I received my confirmation letter they also sent leaflet about it (not that I needed as I have no kids). I would definitely ring HR. There must be so many Healthcare professionals that work shifts and need childcare, don't be afraid to talk to them before you give up on your dream job.

All the best.

hr100

You shouldnt give up your dream

Your children will benefit by seeing what sacrifices you made for them to have a better life and will see you can really get what you want if you work hard enough.

Cant offer anymore advice except maybe having to pay for a childminder who can come to your house when you are overnight etc.

tandraig

I would definate ring HR and ask about childcare - also au-pair a good suggestion as they usually work for reasonable pocket money and living expense. another thought is shared childcare - HR may also be able to help with this - do other workers share a nanny or suchlike. I have heard of this working well in some cases.