I am a 21-year-old mum of two young children, the youngest being seven months. I previously worked as a customer service adviser, but did not go back after maternity leave as it was not finacially beneficial to me and my partner. I would like to get a job, but there seems to be nothing out there for me. Childcare costs are ridiculous -what I would earn a hour wouldn't even cover these costs. I have thought about a home study corse in bookkeeping. Is there any way I could get a grant to do this? I thought with a qualification under my belt I'd be more employable. Please if you know of any jobs I could do or advice on my home learning it would be much appreciated.
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I am due to return to work at the end of April and wish to apply for a flexible working request to go part-time.  My problems are (1) the office I previously worked from is being closed down and I have not been advised where I am expected to work from, despite asking on numerous occasions and recieving vague responses about locations which are not commutable especially with nursery drop-off times (2) there has recently been a collective consultation. However, my line manager has advised that my job role is remaining.  I have asked if I can apply for a temporary change to my full-time contract with a view to making it permanent once the new structure has been announced.  HR have advised that there is not a form for this and I have to apply for a permanent change.  I am a bit wary of doing this as I believe if they were to suddenly decide to make me redundant and if my part-time working hours have been accepted this would be what any redundancy package would be based on.  Also I don't know how I am meant to put together a business case for my flexible working application if I do not know the business unit, location, or new structure? Should I submit a covering letter stating my concerns over the application or is there anything else I can do to cover my back?
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I am on maternity leave and am due to return in May this year. Unfortunatly, I was signed off sick from April due to complications during pregnancy, and my maternity began in August. Since then, I feel its a case of "out of sight, out of mind". I have not received the copy of the company maternity policy which I have requested twice from the HR department, I have not received any information regarding a change to structure and pensions, and also job vacancies which were open to all colleagues (both of which I only heard about from a colleague I bumped into after the positions had been filled!). I also know the company are moving premises, but I have no idea when, where and have not heard anything since November last year! I am extremely upset about how I have been treated after 5 years service, and the thought of having to go back and work there again makes me feel sick to my stomach because of it. Has my employer failed in their obligations at all, or am I overreacting? Is there anything I can do as I don't feel I can just let this lie?
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I am currently working for a charity as a fundraiser. Whilst I love this, I would like to expand my opportunities and try and work for a private company. How should I do this?
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