Changing length of maternity leave?

[Kiddo]

I said from the start that I would take 9 months off on maternity leave but now I'm considering taking the full year. My boss is expecting me back in about 6-7 weeks so is it now too late to change my mind? I only get SMP so it's not like he'll have to fork out more on maternity pay.

If I ask him now can he say no to it?

 

[MrsRH]

you need to check your contract about the notice period to return to work, usually about 4 weeks.
I'd put it in writing asap and contact HR.
He can't say no as long as you've done it in time!!

good luck
xxx

 

[aly888]

I think its 28 days notice or something that you have to give them if you intend to take the full 52 weeks maternity.and it has to be written notice!!there is nothing he can do so long as you get it to him within the time limit coz he has to keep your job open for you.
You can find out all the details on the directGov website.it my even have a letter template for you!!

 

[blahblahblah]

My contract says I have to give 8 weeks notice to change this - it might be worth checking what yours says. If you are short of time to do it, just have a chat with your boss and see what you can do. What's the worst they can say?

 

[Kiddo]

My contract doesn't really go into maternity rights it just says I'm entitled to SMP if I get pregnant. I had a look on directgov website but it only mentions if you want to return to work early you need to give 8 weeks notice but there's nothing about returning later.

I think I'll drop the boss an email today and see what he says.

Thanks for the replies.

 

[Cham]

Legally, you are allowed 52 weeks so they shouldn't expect you back before then, unless you give the minimum of 2 months notice. I work in HR and women often say 'Ill only be off for 6 months etc, but I say unless you give us notice, we aren't expecting you back, especially as you won't know how you feel until you have your baby.

You are allowed the time off despite how your boss may react. The best thing you can do is be honest and give as much notice as possible.

 

[Kiddo]

I've sent an email - fingers crossed!

 

[golcarlilly]

Sorry no advice but good luck hun

 

[Kiddo]

He said yes

Thanks for all the replies

 

[MrsRH]

He said yes

Thanks for all the replies

x

 

[joeyjo]

Yeah!!! Great news!

 

[golcarlilly]

Yaay!!!!! what fab news! when is your new return date? Maybe we can arrange a meet up half way sometime before then?

 

[Jemma_x]

thats great news

 

[Kiddo]

Yaay!!!!! what fab news! when is your new return date? Maybe we can arrange a meet up half way sometime before then?

That would be fabulous! I'm due back at the end of July.

 

[GossipGirl]

That's fantastic he said yes, I'm set for the 9 months at the moment but I might change it to a year depending how I feel once baby comes. Also probably going back part time so see what happens!