voluntary furlough

amy84

Hi, I started a new job 2 weeks ago. It's a part-time roll so over those 2 weeks I have only worked 6 shifts. Just my luck I started when covid-19 really started to hit. I am classed as a keyworker(along with the huge list of other workers lol)So work has been quiet due to the virus and we were updated yesterday that we will be located to another location if we fall into 2 of 5 categories but if we fall into the other 3 we will be put into furlough. My question is can I volunteer to be put into furlough rather than go to a new location? My reasons being I can't get to the new location without having to use public transport/taxi which I am not using at present due to the virus. I currently walk to work as its only a 40minute walk and keeps me and others safer . I have endometriosis which was operated on just a couple of months ago but symptoms remain and although there is no evidence endo sufferers are at high risk there really isn't much info on this new virus that I try my hardest to keep safe and it does cause me breathing difficulties(I have another gyno appointment in April) I am still very new to the job and still learning & as yet have not been left on my own and am still in training so feel I am spare part as everyone knows what they are doing and feel in this stressful time I am more in the way rather than a help and support and lastly we would survive with the 80% furlough . if it allowed someone who needs their full wage to get it  & if it saves jobs once this is over because who knows what the impact will be after this as companies will have taken a hit. I'd rather loose 20% now than my whole job/career 3-4 months down the line. Thank you x

sharpe106

There is nothing wrong with asking. Although it sounds like they are going to select people on skill set so it will depends on what your job is and what job they need covering at the other place of work.

amy84

sharpe106 said:

There is nothing wrong with asking. Although it sounds like they are going to select people on skill set so it will depends on what your job is and what job they need covering at the other place of work.

Thank you for your reply. With being so new I didnt want to look silly or have them think bad of me. My new job is a pre-school assistant so it would be the same job but at a different pre-school. They have closed over 100 pre-schools and just keeping a handful open for keyworkers children. 

7Phil

When you say 'updated' do you mean by email or phone? Ask to speak to them about this, and ask for a phone call. Talk openly about about your transport issues and any other worries you might have about the new location.
You don't need to talk about any medical issues. That is not anyone's business unless you really feel like you want to tell someone you trust and them understanding would help.
I know you are new but have you found anyone you feel you can be comfortable to talk with yet?

For example, if they were happy to transfer you but someone was able to give you a lift in their car - maybe that would be even easier for you than walking 40 minutes. If you prefer to be furloughed and the company can sort that out then do ask. You should not feel silly in these crazy times.

sharpe106

I would have thought as you were new and not fully trained you would have been one of the first they would furlough. Probably best having a chat with your manager but they can decide who they want to furlough and who they do not.

amy84

7Phil said:

When you say 'updated' do you mean by email or phone? Ask to speak to them about this, and ask for a phone call. Talk openly about about your transport issues and any other worries you might have about the new location.
You don't need to talk about any medical issues. That is not anyone's business unless you really feel like you want to tell someone you trust and them understanding would help.
I know you are new but have you found anyone you feel you can be comfortable to talk with yet?

Hi,
no I haven't really built up any strong relationships yet and the manager is self isolating for 12 weeks so have only seen her twice! It's all a bit crazy really and I would have preferred they got in touch with me to pause my induction until this was over.
From what I can make out someone will be intouch by email.