Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I graduated in 2008 with a BA (Hons) in architecture. I worked for a reputable practice for two years, which I loved, until the bite of the recession saw my contract end in 2010.
I had my only child later that year but felt financial pressure to get back to work after four months. A local company was hiring admin staff and I took the post hoping for it to be a temporary fix. Famous last words as, more than four years later, I am still here.
I work 45 hours a week for minimal pay despite the company knowing my skills and capabilities. All my attempts to work my way up have resulted in me doing much more than my meagre job description and a 4% pay rise since 2011. I have talked to my manager who is very sympathetic but says little can be done.
My child is now in school and, while I know that I should be getting a new job, I feel trapped as I have been out of the industry for five years.
I have considered retraining part-time, but the fees are staggering and on £17,000 a year before tax, there is little I can afford. I hope I haven’t missed my chance to have a fulfilling career.
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
