I’m about to go on maternity leave. Can I ask to return part-time?
Yes, you can request to return part-time – or to any other working pattern of your choice – when your maternity leave ends. Again, it is important to remember that you have the right to request to return part-time, not the automatic right to work part-time. It is best to let your employer know well beforehand that you wish to change your working pattern on your return and that you will eventually be making a formal request. Approach him informally as early as possible, ideally before you go on leave, and tell him of your plans so that he knows what to expect. Wait until the post-natal period before deciding the working pattern that you will apply for (i.e. in terms of hours) because only then will you fully know what your needs will be and the type of working pattern that would best meet these needs. You will need to state on your application when you would like your requested working pattern to begin. Typically, this will be from the date that you return to work. In which case, there
