Returning to work

If you wish to return at a date other than that already notified, then you must give your HR Business Partner at least 8 weeks’ notice in writing of your date of return.

Adjustments to working patterns

If you work full-time and want to return to work on a part-time basis after your maternity leave, or to request other flexible working arrangements, you should discuss the options as soon as possible with your HR Business Partner  and your College Dean/Head of Service in accordance with the procedure for the right for parents and carers to request adjustments to working patterns.

You will normally return to the same job that you did before your maternity leave on the same terms and conditions (eg salary, hours, grade). However, in the rare occasions when this is not possible, you will be offered a similar job on terms and conditions comparable to your previous job.

If you decide not to return to work you must give at least the amount of notice that you are required to give under your contract of employment. It will help your line manager if you let them know as soon as you are sure.

University Maternity Pay

You are entitled to receive Statutory Maternity Pay and Maternity Allowance for up to 39 weeks even if your employment ends, so long as you don't start work again during this period. If you receive University Maternity Pay, the University may reclaim all or part of the non-statutory element of this maternity pay if you fail to return to work for at least 3 months following your maternity leave (or an equivalent period of time if you reduce your hours).

Further benefits

If you have taken any Keeping in Touch days whilst on maternity leave, please complete form PD25 and return it to Human Resources at least 2 weeks before the date you are due to return to work.

You may also be eligible for Parental Leave during your child's first eight years (or eighteen years if your child has disabilities).

Your partner may be eligible for Additional Paternity/Maternity Support Leave & Pay if you return to work before the end of your SMP period.

Childcare Vouchers are available for employees to purchase via a salary sacrifice arrangement of up to £55 per week (£243 per calendar month) without paying tax or NI Contributions on this sum.

If you are planning to breastfeed when you return to work, you should inform the Occupational Health Service so that any health and safety risks are managed effectively.