In Your workplace

Q) Am I entitled to flexible working? I need to juggle care of an elderly relative with my full-time job. The practice is not keen on this, even though one of the GP partners works flexibly.

I am always very disappointed when I hear an employer is reticent to support staff when they ask for flexible working. I have found that staff who have had flexible working arrangements agreed are often very motivated and appreciative of the effort made by their employer. The problem is often more about misunderstanding. There can be confusion among staff and managers who are trying to agree a mutually workable arrangement. Sometimes it seems easier for an employer to just say no when they should take time to consider the benefits for both them and their staff.