With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to change how we work, more and more of us are finding ourselves working from home while also trying to balance parenting responsibilities. It can be a tough juggling act, but it’s definitely doable! In this post, we’ll look at your legal rights as a working parent in the UK and some tips and tricks for making it all work.
What the Law Says
First things first, let’s talk about your legal rights as a working parent in the UK. Did you know that you have the right to request flexible working? That’s right, if you have a child under the age of 18 (or under 23 if the child is disabled), you can ask your employer to make changes to your working hours, pattern or location. Now, it’s important to note that your employer doesn’t have to say yes to your request, but they do have to consider it in a reasonable manner, and they can’t refuse it on certain grounds, like the burden of additional costs.
In addition to the right to request flexible working, you also have the right to statutory parental leave and pay. This allows you to take time off work to look after your child. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by balancing work and parenting, it’s assuring you that you have options and rights.
But what about the day-to-day reality of working from home while also caring for a little one? It can definitely be a challenge, but with a little bit of planning and organization, it’s totally possible. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Set boundaries: It can be tough to separate your work life from your home life when you’re working from the same place, but it’s important to have set work hours and to make sure you’re not working all the time.
- Create a routine: Kids thrive on routine, and it can help to have a set schedule for work and child care.
- Communicate with your employer: If you need more flexibility in your schedule to take care of your child, it’s important to talk to your employer about it. They may be able to work out a schedule that works for both of you.
- Get creative: You don’t have to do it all on your own. Consider hiring a babysitter for a couple of hours a day or even trade off child care with another working parent in your neighbourhood.
At the end of the day, balancing work and parenting is a constant work in progress, but with the right mindset and some solid strategies in place, it’s definitely possible to make it work.
Remember, as a working parent in the UK, you have legal rights and options, and it’s important to communicate openly with your employer to find a solution that works for everyone. Check out the government website for more information on your rights and options.
