It is very important for you and your manager to stay in touch.
Individuals may need to change work routines and perhaps reduce the number of hours which they are able to work. Any such changes should be discussed and agreed with line managers. Please be assured that anyone in such circumstances will continue to receive full pay.
In discussion with your manager, establish work priorities to focus on and what can possibly be left until a later date. Depending on the nature of your work, discuss a realistic completion date. This will help to give focus and a sense of achievement. Even the best line managers are probably not mind-readers; if you need further support and help with your work please discuss with your manager if appropriate. If they are unable to help, they might be able to point you to other support functions/resources.
Accept that you may have good working days and not so good, especially if your child/children are having a fractious day - these are difficult circumstances for us all to live and work in. Remember, you do not have to be a star parent or star employee all of the time - you just do your best.
Encourage school age children to stick to their normal routine during term-time but take advice from their school and be prepared to be flexible to help you all cope
Where possible, make plans with your partner to divide the childcare, and stick to the plan.
The present circumstances may be even tougher, if you are a single parent with childcare responsibilities and you have no other adult living with you or your own established support network. Please do speak with your line manager and /or OH, HR, or other colleagues to ask for help if needed. Volunteers on our buddy scheme are also very willing to provide an informal listening ear.
