Anonymous discussion · Overwhelmed
The school uniform sock is still on the chair
The school uniform sock is still on the chair. I was folding everything when the ward message came. Two extra night shifts next week, and again the line about people who are not flexible getting fewer preferred shifts. I have been accepting these changes for nearly three months. Last month I asked privately for at least one week's notice. I was told everyone is under pressure, so I agreed. Since then I have swapped one shift when possible and kept quiet. Not because it is easy. I just don't want to be known as the separated mother who makes the roster difficult. I am not refusing to work. I am tired of proving I am willing by giving away every predictable part of my life. My child sees me sleeping in the day, and I miss small school things. Sometimes a neighbour helps, sometimes I ask my husband, which I don't like doing. He is not regularly available anyway. The newer staff member is still mostly getting day shifts for training. I understand they need to learn. Still, the difficult shifts keep coming to the experienced people who are expected to manage somehow. I feel bad even writing that because the shortage is real and I need this job for rent and school expenses. I have to confirm by tomorrow. I can accept both again, ask them to remove one, or start seriously looking for another place. Tonight I opened a job-search page and closed it. Maybe I am only angry. Has anyone in healthcare managed to set a limit on extra night shifts without being labelled inflexible? I am not asking for no nights. Just some notice, and a little space to arrange childcare and transport before the next message comes.