How to change to a part-time lecturer in the UK

Question

Currently a full-time senior lecturer in a UK university (post-1992, lower middle-ranking if it matters).

I am thinking of going part-time (0.8 or even 0.6) due to physical or/and mental health. Not sure what I am asking here. Guess I am wondering how I may approach this, as I have never done this before. Nor do I know of any 40 male (no child) having such arrangement around me... Do I need to have "hard evidence" for this? I mean, it's not like I am taking advantage of the university or something... Physical health-wise, I had a successful operation years ago, It's not major at the moment (touch wood), but occasionally gives minor discomfort. Mental health wise, my therapist is happy to confirm for me.

I wonder how I may approach this?

Answer 1

All UK employees have a statutory right to request "flexible working", which includes part-time. Now, the employer doesn't have to grant your request, but it does have to go through a predefined procedure to make that decision, rather than it just being the informal snap decision of your Head of department/school, pro-vice chancellor or HR bod.

There is a specific form to fill in usually.

See the advice here: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/work/rights-at-work/flexible-working/flexible-working-what-is-it/

I'd start by approaching your head of department. Its probably worth knowing who your union rep is, although the union will usually only provide individual case work help if you've been in the union for at least 3 months when the problem with which you want help arose.

Answer 2

Talk to HR. Talk to a department head or dean. This is a local problem that you need to work out. Some places (not UK specific) will let you do such things with no salary adjustments for even an extended period. People have accidents. Employers, not just universities, expect to have to make adjustments for such things. They likely have an insurance program to cover the fact that you are effectively part time so that it is reasonable to avoid reductions in salary.

How much you need to reveal depends on local law and custom. Knowing your doctor will back you up if necessary is a plus.

Answer 3

Buffy explores options to reduce the workload at full pay. This will only work with medical reasoons and for a limited amount of time (it might be a long time though).

If you are considering a reduction in work time and pay this should be a lot more straight forward. Reducing your weekly hours to 80% or 60% and reducing pay in line is probably an option you can take just because you want to. Talk to HR to inquire about the formalities, your dean probably has to give a formal signature but in general I would expect you can just choose to reduce your hours without having to give any justification.