At Citrus, we understand that personal circumstances can change, and you may wish to request a reduction in your contracted working hours. However, due to the nature of our business and the specific site-based contracts we operate, such requests require careful consideration and cannot always be guaranteed.
This guide explains the process and what you can expect if you wish to reduce your hours.
Step 1: Submitting Your Request
Inform the Operations team:
Speak to the operations team as soon as possible to discuss your request. Explain your reasons and your desired outcome (e.g., reducing hours, changing shifts).
Submit a Written Request:
Follow up your conversation with a written request, including:
Your current hours and site.
The number of hours you wish to reduce to.
Any specific days or times you need off.
Provide Notice:
Please give as much notice as possible. This allows us to assess options and minimise disruption to our clients and team.
Step 2: Understanding the Process
Site-Specific Contracts:
Many of our staff are contracted to specific client sites with set requirements. Reducing hours may not be feasible if it compromises the service standards agreed with the client. We are obligated to meet the terms of our agreements with clients, which may limit flexibility at your current site.
Exploring Alternative Options:
If a reduction in hours at your current site is not possible, we may explore:
Reassigning You to Another Site:
We may move you to a site where fewer hours are available, but this will depend on the availability of positions and your suitability for the role.
Offering a Split-Site Role:
If hours are available across multiple sites, you may be offered work at more than one location to accommodate your request.
Temporary Adjustments:
In some cases, we may offer a temporary reduction in hours, allowing us to review your situation and the operational needs at a later date. This ensures we can still meet client needs while supporting you during a transitional period.
Flexibility Required:
While we will do our best to accommodate your request, please understand that flexibility is required. We cannot guarantee that your preferred hours or site will be available. Depending on the operational needs of the business, adjustments may involve compromises, such as travel to a different site.
Consideration of Impact:
Reducing hours may also impact your pay and benefits. Be sure to consider how this will affect your financial situation and discuss any concerns with your manager.
Step 3: Outcome and Next Steps
Decision Notification:
A manager will review your request with the operations team and notify you of the outcome. This process may take up to two weeks. We aim to handle requests as efficiently as possible while ensuring minimal disruption to the business.
Accepting Changes:
If we can accommodate your request, you will need to agree to the changes in writing. This may involve a new contract or an addendum to your existing contract, specifying the revised hours and conditions.
If the Request Cannot Be Met:
If it is not possible to reduce your hours or reassign you to another site, we will discuss alternative options, such as:
Retaining your current hours.
Reviewing your situation periodically to identify future opportunities for adjustments.
Supporting you in finding alternative employment (if appropriate).
Key Points to Remember
Contractual Obligations:
Your contract is tied to specific service levels at the site. Reducing your hours may not be possible without affecting the client agreement, which is a critical part of our business relationships.
Site Reassignment:
If we cannot reduce your hours at your current site, we may need to reassign you to a different site. This is not guaranteed to be permanent and depends on operational needs and availability of roles at other sites.
Flexibility is Essential:
While we aim to support you, our priority is maintaining high service standards for our clients and ensuring continuity of work for our team. Flexibility on your part will help us find the best possible solution.
Communication is Key:
Open and honest communication with your manager is essential. Ensure you clearly outline your needs and keep us informed of any changes to your situation.
Additional Support
If you’re considering reducing your hours, here are some additional steps you can take:
Review Your Finances:
Assess the financial impact of reducing your hours to ensure it aligns with your personal circumstances.
Explore Internal Opportunities:
Ask about other roles within Citrus that may offer more flexible hours or different responsibilities.
Seek Advice:
If you have concerns about the process or need guidance, contact HR for confidential support. They can help clarify policies and provide assistance tailored to your needs.
Need Help?
If you have further questions or need assistance with your request, please contact your line manager or the HR department. We’re here to help and will do our best to work with you to find a suitable solution.