Variable Start and Finish Times

What's it for?

Variable Start and Finish Times allow you to start and finish your working day at different times from those considered to be the ‘norm’ within your unit, section or HQ. Your total time in work will not be less than that considered to be normal for the role.

What do I get?

The baseline will be the working routine for your particular organisation as there is no ‘standard’ working week or shift pattern for the Armed Forces.

The MOD still has a duty to make sure that you are not working a longer day than can be done safely or are not at risk if working a longer day means working alone. This may mean that there are limits as to how far you can vary or compress your hours.

Other things to consider

This pattern can help accommodate travelling outside of rush hour or with dropping children at school.

It is not suitable for every role. However, flexibility amongst the team should always be considered. For example, if a workplace needs to be staffed between certain times, maybe those who need to start late or finish early on a Monday or Friday could cover for those who need to get away early during the week.

All alternative working arrangements should be reviewed by your Line Manager on a regular basis (at least every 12 months). The review can take place earlier if necessary, and either party can give notice to cancel, wherever possible giving 28 days’ notice.

How do I apply for this?

Speak to your Line Manger or Unit HR/Personnel Office and then apply on JPA. The Absences (flexible working) user guide (which can be found at JPA user guides) tells you how to do this.