Employment Advice for Single Mothers
Can you relate to this situation? You’re a single mother; you’re working full-time for a company when a domestic crisis hits. Suddenly your work hours can be potentially effected due to your family commitments. Believe it or not this happens everyday, some single mothers gaining the understanding of their employers while others endure severe financial loss. Ever wonder what you are entitled to? Ever wonder what steps you can take to protect yourself. In this article we will attempt to offer some Employment advice for single mothers.
Both single and working mothers make up a large segment of the work force and employment tribunals tend to look rather unfavorable on employers that choose to make their lives difficult. That said most of us would rather settle the problem amicably before having to have the problem taken over by the legal system. The best place to start is within your own company. Check out their own policies regarding work hours reduction, flexi-time, compassionate leave and so forth. The best employment advice for single mothers might be right there at your fingertips. It may seem like a simple solution to a complex problem but there are numerous examples of companies behaving in direct violation of their own polices.
If the issue cannot be resolved within the company’s own rules and procedures then another possibility is to consult your union representative. Becoming a member of a union may seem like an added cost but when you need legal advice on employment law they are highly beneficial. Simply contact your representative, put your situation in writing and listen to whatever advice they have to offer you. Unions in many cases will cover your legal costs should your situation end up in the courts. They can also offer you liability protection should things start to get ugly.
Many seeking employment advice for single mothers want to know the specifics, under the law of what they are entitled to. This can be difficult being that laws can differ from state to state and region to region. However, in general you are entitled to time off for domestic emergencies, especially if child care is involved. Keep in mind that this is a short term solution. Companies are not expected to offer this for an indefinite period of time. You also have to keep in mind that payment will vary. There are no laws protecting your salary if you take time off for this reason. It is the company’s decision whether or not they pay you. The company will likely be in violation of the law if they dismiss you for this reason.
Another piece of employment advice for single mothers is to always try to settle things amicably with your employer. Depending on where you live, if they are making your life difficult and are being child unfriendly, you may be entitled to protection under the sexual discrimination act. Write to your employer outlining your request, be it time of or a temporary reduction of work hours. Emphasize the point hat you wish to settle this in a friendly manner and would rather not take legal advice or seek a decision by the courts. This will present you in a very calm professional manner as well as put your employer on notice that you are aware of certain rights you have.
A final piece of employment advice for single mothers on the subject of physical health. These situations can be very stressful, to the point that physical symptoms can start to show. Should this happen make sure you see your doctor. If they deem it necessary for you to have time off due to stress, your employer can do noting.