Rotating Day Off

[QWESTQDO]

I have been on a fixed term contract with RM since Jan 2011 (20 hr contract although work 30hr week on average). Up until 2 weeks ago I was on a rotating day off system, however since changes implemented (full time staff getting 2 saturdays off in every 4) my days off are all over the place, working every Saturday and Monday. I recieved an extended contract last week until end of April (previous contract was up until 31st March 2012) stating terms and conditions remain the same.

My CWU rep has informed me that I will recieve a new permanent contract, however will be expected to work every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday although not formally documented in my extended contract.

As previously stated my 'off days' are all over the place and never know what days I am working therefore difficult to plan time off with my family. My CWU rep is currently off sick, therefore unable to discuss with him (he is off sick most of the time and doesn't keep me informed of any changes that I should be made aware of anyway - starting to wonder why I pay Union contributions, I dont seem to be well represented)!!

Advice would be grealy appreciated.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

I have been on a fixed term contract with RM since Jan 2011 (20 hr contract although work 30hr week on average). Up until 2 weeks ago I was on a rotating day off system, however since changes implemented (full time staff getting 2 saturdays off in every 4) my days off are all over the place, working every Saturday and Monday. I recieved an extended contract last week until end of April (previous contract was up until 31st March 2012) stating terms and conditions remain the same.

My CWU rep has informed me that I will recieve a new permanent contract, however will be expected to work every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday although not formally documented in my extended contract.

As previously stated my 'off days' are all over the place and never know what days I am working therefore difficult to plan time off with my family. My CWU rep is currently off sick, therefore unable to discuss with him (he is off sick most of the time and doesn't keep me informed of any changes that I should be made aware of anyway - starting to wonder why I pay Union contributions, I dont seem to be well represented)!!

Advice would be grealy appreciated.

Thats not his responsibility - its RMs job to keep you advised of your contract responsibilities and any changes to them. The rep is there to advise when needed and to represent you and your colleagues collectively.

As a reserve it is usual to have your days off be random thats common in Royal Mail but they should give you adequate notice, usually a week here. However, they still have to treat you fairly and in my opinion, not knowing the full situation at your office, at first glance if only Full Timers are getting regular Saturdays off then that is unfair (unless its specifically written into the contract that you will work every Saturday---- but even then????).

If your rep is sick then go to the Area Delivery Rep and get their advice, also go along to Citizens Advice and get their considered advice as well.