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  |  Experts  |  Work- Life Balance - (Guest Expert)  |  Do I have to work on my day off?
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Do I have to work on my day off?

by Work Rights Expert, Rachel Lewis

question
I job share as a teacher for three days a week. My boss has told me he needs me to come in on one of my days off to attend staff meetings (about one-two hours long). This gives me a problem with childcare, as well as eating into my day off. What are my rights?
Kath

answer
Hi Kath
I can understand how going to work on your day off is getting you down. Legally, you are not obliged to work outside your contracted hours (as long as your contract does not contain a clause requiring flexibility). If you refuse to attend the staff meetings on this basis then you should not be penalised. However, this may not create the most harmonious working environment.

The best thing to do would be to explain your situation to your boss and see if a compromise can be reached. Is it possible for you to work different days so that you would be around for the meeting or can the staff meeting be moved to a different day?
Good luck.

Live Q&A on Ask The Expert
Employment lawyer Rachel Lewis advises on your work-related issues

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