Do I have to attend courses?

[Beaney192]

While on maternity leave? Ive been asked to attend an infection control course in November. But I really don't want to do it. A) im not liking the idea of leaving my baby for the morning and b) im not even sure that im going back when my leave is up.

Where do I stand legally on this?
Thanks for any replies. Xx

 

[Rags]

Hi, I'm not completely sure myself. I know that there are up to 10 'keeping in touch days' factored in to maternity leave as a way of keeping you up to date with changes in your job and to help with returning after mat leave. You aren't required to do these but if you choose to you are entitled to your regular pay for the time you are there.
I knew I wasn't intending to return at the end of my leave but I still made a point of staying in touch and looking interested. Although I didn't really want to I did attend a full 2 day refresher 1st aid at work course as well as my qualification was important for returning to my precious job but even more important for becoming a free lance worker