We hope you’re doing well and have access to everything you need while away from work.
You may have become aware that the Temporary Family Friendly Hours provisions are currently being reviewed by the Employee Relations Team.
Temporary family friendly hours is an informal local arrangement to allow flexibility and support childcare needs with a return to the workplace, which provides an opportunity to trial a working pattern(s) prior to submitting a formal flexible working request.
It was recently brought to the attention of the Force Executive that there is a disparity in the provisions between Devon & Cornwall Police and Dorset Police, in that the arrangement has not been utilised in the manner in which the Forces initially intended. The Force has a responsibility to ensure, as a public sector organisation, public funds are used responsibly and proportionately and therefore it has been necessary to progress proposed changes to the current Force guidance to add clarity to the process.
Please be assured that no changes are currently confirmed, and the proposed changes are out for consultation with key stakeholders.
The consultation is due to close on Monday 25th March 2024. Any changes will be communicated following review and consideration of all the feedback received both here on the external portal, and to the organisation.
The Family Support Group have been included in the group of stakeholders and will be feeding back accordingly.
Should the changes be approved for finalisation, transitional arrangements will apply, however the details of these are yet to be established.
If you have any queries about what the changes may mean for you, please ensure you communicate with your line manager, the Family Support Group, HR, Trade Union or Police Federation so that we can advise and support you. Please note however, it is unlikely we will be able to confirm anything definitive until the consultation period has closed, and any changes are formally published.
If you need support or have a query, you can get in touch here.