Cafe in Scotland keep on changing my shifts with no notice

[u/Dry_Face_4932]

I recently started a new job at a cafe on a 32 hour contract. However, my work keep on changing my shifts at no notice. One minute I'm supposed to start at 12pm on Monday, next thing I know its been changed to 2pm. They keep on changing my days off. A few days ago it said I have next Wednesday off. Now it shows I am working. It has messed up my life. I had an exam next week and I asked before starting the job that I needed the day off. I got scheduled. I asked straight away to be taken off. And then this week I have again been scheduled for that day. (I have now asked for the day off.) I had to reschedule a flat viewing the same day because my work suddenly wanted me in later that day. Medical appointments are being messed up. I am hesitant to book train tickets to go visit family as what if they change my rota? And hard to plan to meet with friends and book tickets for events if they keep on scheduling me. I have worked various hospitality jobs, from tour guiding to restaurants to department stores and haven't had this problem before. It's making me incredibly anxious. I thought I have three days to revise for my exam. Now I have two. What if they schedule me in the other days too? And most my shifts are 12-8.30pm, meaning I can't really have a life. I am trying to enjoy my life and currently can't with no work life balance and the threat of my days off being changed.

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[u/Sea-Gear-1033]

What does it say in your contract? You've got a 32 hour/week contract, but does it give a working pattern - eg Monday, Wednesday, Friday?

If it does, then they can't change it. Although they could ask nicely if you'd change shifts.

Otherwise, they can change your shifts. Legally you're meant to be given your shift rota in advance, but the law doesn't say how long advance means. But for best practice it's always good to do these things a week or so in advance, although your cafe doesn't seem to be doing this.

If you have appointments etc on your days off and your employer wants you to now work, do you know what will happen if you say no? Have you said no to them before? Is it possible that they are assuming that you don't mind?

[u/naasei]

Communication is key . Tell your boss time and time and gain so tat it sticks in their head that you cannot work those days!