Members have raised questions with the Branch on specific points. We have raised these with PCS DWP Group and have received answers, the details are published below:

Question 1:

 Section 10.3 of the flexible working hours agreement states that breaks cannot be taken immediately at the start or end of an employees working day, nor can they be added on to a lunch break. I am unable to find anywhere in either the flexible working hours policy or the Employee Deal where it states how soon after the start or before the end of the working day these breaks can be taken.

If I, for example, receive a regular telephone call after working for 15 minutes due to my fixed start time would I be able to use part of my break time to take this call or is there a minimum required length of time I need to work prior to taking any break time?

Answer:

 Thank you for your email.

The rate of accrual for these breaks for all employees, as stated under Flexible Working Hours Agreement (FWHA) Procedure 10.2, is at a rate of one 5-minute break for each hour of the employee’s working day up to a total of 30 minutes daily.  The first break would normally be after working one hour using this accrual procedure but this is not intended to be used in such a rigid way.

The ability of an employee to take shorter breaks is explained under FWHA Advice Q23. Colleagues are expected to consult together so that there is adequate planning to meet individual and operational needs during the day. If an individual has a need to have a 5 minute break after working for 15 minutes this could be accommodated under team planning ‘to meet individual and operational needs during the day’.