Can I be forced to work more hours at my job then I'm contracted to?

[RedRose123]

I'm not sure if anyone here would know but I need some advice...Due to my anxiety (and depression) I work permanent part-time 4 hour shifts, 4 days a week. I feel like I have quite enough hours as it is. Some times it feels like way too much as it is.

I've really been struggling.

On Friday my boss mentioned that she needs me to work more hours. Due to what was going on at the time we couldn't really discuss it. It was just said in passing. But I want to find out my rights before we do. I want to say no. I'm honestly already at my breaking point. I do not want more hours.

Can I be forced to work more then I'm contracted to on a regular bases. (My boss does know about my anxiety and depression which is why I work part time in the first place). It's not that I want to make things difficult for her. I'm just trying to look after myself.

As far as I can tell from reseching the law she can't. I feel so stressed now. I don't want my boss mad. But I'm already sick enough.

Please help.

[white knight]

Hi RedRose, welcome

Ive had 70 or more jobs and 15 or so professions including contract work and managers positions.

My understanding is that generally workets are expected to work a "reasonable" amount of overtime.

Such an amount might vary but with the hours you work I'd suggest 2-4 hours a week is reasonable.

If you have a disability pension or other factor that limits your amount you can earn before your pension is effected, that would be reason enough to refuse the work.

I learned that working with your boss is better that working against them. Ask if you can rearrange days so you might work an extra hour a day but have an extra day off, maybe when that day is a quiet day trading?

Cheers

Tony WK

[Sophie_M]

Hi RedRose123, thanks for posting.  Are you still in the same job you were back in December?  You started a thread then about your anxiety and your boss with a lot more information - if this is the same job it would be helpful to keep updating this thread so members replying to you have all the backstory at hand before providing advice:

My anxiety and boss