Job sharing @ AP level

Runsallday

As title suggests, job sharing at AP level, does it exist? Is it difficult to get? Does anyone know of APs in their department who job share?

Kirbi

I haven't seen true job sharing (2 people alternating to fill a role) in a very long time, but I know of several APs in the civil service who work a less than 100% work pattern now, or who did in the last few years.

Aisling(",)

I don't know any worksharing AP's but I know a fair few who take the full swy allowable or who work mornings only/3 weeks a month,

Runsallday

They still call it job sharing in my department, but yes that's what i'm wondering - APs who work less than a 100% work pattern. Ok so it is a thing, as APs loose flexi, I was wondering if reduced hours was "frowned upon". I debate whether the leap from HEO is worth it with the loss of flexi but I also don't want to go back full time if I did get it.

Does anyone know if AO grade in Councils can get reduced work patterns? I know Council's are a law unto themselves.

Kirbi

I've no idea about councils I'm afraid, but based on your additional context re taking a new AP role, I should clarify that I've never seen a new AP be approved for a reduced work pattern straight off - they were all seasoned in their role.

In general, it's much more difficult to get approved for work-sharing while still on probation for any role (although I think it's not an absolute prohibition), and it would become even harder as you move up the grades.

I guess what I'm saying is, you can ask when you're offered the role, but a no may be likely.

The APs I've seen with a reduced pattern were very much still doing the full job or close to it, so you can see why the org would want a person to be proven before they allow it.

There are APs doing 4 day weeks in my department, and also do SWYS in my department, so it is possible at AP level.

But if you're new to the role it may not be approved immediately. Which is true to any grade, really.