Mandatory work programme for single parents

emilywalker

Have just received letter to start my work placement on Tuesday, if anyone has kids they'll know it's school half term next week, so this gives me no time to sort out childcare, they've also given me the hours 10-5, this works out to 35 hours a week, this is all wrong, if anyone else has had these experiences, please share.

WantToBeSE

Hi Emily.
If i were you, i'd call them on Monday in regards to the childcare issue.
The 35 hours isn't necessarily a problem (in their eyes), but the childcare SHOULD be.
How old are you children?

emilywalker

Children are 5 and 8, well I was told from the beginning hours would be 30 hours a week, then I was told only 20 hours as I have children, and now the work timetable shows to work out to 35 hours a week.

wantsajob

Don't suppose there's a child care mandatory work programme where people are forced to look after kids for people in your situation for £0 per hour?!

cr1mson

That would be 30 hours a week assuming an hour for lunch. So just looks like they have forgotten you have kids. Give them a call and remind them! My friend did 10-2 with no break so she didn't have any childcare apart from school hols.

I also don't think it would be unreasonable to ask to start after half term is over however I have no idea how they would handle that request.

emilywalker

Yeh 30 hours a week, timetable they've given me is 35 hours though, & was told when I rang them about childcare they said hours would be 10-2, but the rota they've sent is not that, and to give it to me today to start on Tuesday is stupid, thanks for advice will ring them mon

emilywalker

Anyone one who have experienced problems with the work programme, would be greatfull to hear

Funky_Bold_Ribena

I'd turn up with the kids in tow. As it's half term and all that...I am presuming they are not paying you to pay for childcare? So assume that they are going into the creche at work...

emilywalker

I phoned them last week about it being half term & was told I wouldn't have to do the placement in the school holidays or out of school hours so that's why I havent organised childcare, so rediculous. Am so worried they're now going to stop my money if I don't start this placement in Tuesday.

titch82

Have had such problems with them