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Voluntary reduced time scheme

Voluntary reduced work time allows employees to voluntarily trade income for time off. In principle, people are given the option of reducing their full-time working hours, usually by between 5 and 50% for a specified period with the right to return to full-time work at the end of the period. The time off can be taken by reducing the working day or week, or by taking a block of time off in the year e.g. school holidays.

Eligibility

The Scheme applies to all staff who are working on a full-time basis at the time of application. VRT supports the Councils flexible working options.

Application

The employee should decide on the number of hours by which and the period over which he/she wishes to reduce their hours.

Applications should be put to General/Service Managers'/Head of using the
standard application form. You must state a proposed start date for VRT, consistent with the period of notice you would have to give to end your employment with the Council.

Annual leave

Annual leave provisions will be calculated on a pro-rata basis depending on days worked.

Maternity leave

Normal maternity leave provisions apply.

Pension

The employee should consult the Pensions Manager to find out how the reduction in hours would affect Pension entitlements.

Other paid work

If employees wish to undertake paid work outside the Council whilst on VRT. They should beforehand seek written approval from either your Head of Service or Service/General Manager.