AIBU to worry about return to work after mat leave?

[Spaghettihoops23]

I am currently on mat leave & due to return to work in July.
Originally was going to go back in Oct but as last 3 months are unpaid decided to go back early.
I plan to only return for 3 months so that I don't have to pay money back. I do feel awkward about doing this and think it's a bit of a silly rule. I do understand why it's in place though.
I've obviously kept in touch with work collegues but the more I hear from them the more nervous I am about going back. They are very negative and have nothing good to say about the current workplace. Apparently the area manager has changed and is horrible etc. It's really freaking me out!
I'm worried because I will be only going back temporary and don't know how they'll react to me handing notice in after 2 months. Will they expect it? Also worried as before baby I was very work focused, put alot of my time & energy into my work and did over and above what was expected of me. Now my priorities have changed and I'll just want to get home to my baby. I want to be a SAHM for a couple of years & enjoy my baby.
What are your experiences of going back to work temporary after mat leave? How were your employers? Was it the worst 3months of your life?!shock
Don't think I'm workshy. Worked since I was 16, never been on benefits etc. It just won't be worth it financially going back to work f/t and I don't have an option of going back p/t.

[MrsItsNoworNotatAll]

I'm thinking it's their rule and they made it and when you leave they'll have to suck it up. If they don't like it then they need to change that rule.

Enjoy being a satm. I would love to been one but couldn't afford too. Good luck xx

[carrielou2007]

I love my job and was happy to return but it is hard. When I had dc1 she was only 5 months old, dc2 was 7 months as was dc3. Full time with first, part time with the boys. Surely if you only have to go back for three months you can just get your head down and get one with it

[NotMeNotYouNotAnyone]

It doesn't matter if they like it or not. You're playing by their rules.

Get your head down and do the job you're paid to but don't stress over the above and beyond stuff. I expect other people have stepped up while you've been away, so it shouldn't default to you to do extra stuff

[tilder]

Yes you are playing by the rules.

But yes I can understand why what you are intending to do will grate.

[Lovewineandchocs]

Do you accrue annual leave when on mat leave? If so could you "officially" return but still be off IYSWIM? Or do they offer career breaks at all?

[purpleporpoise]

You don't have to repay SMP if you leave. Did you receive occupational maternity pay as well? Check your contract for if you have to repay it

[Grapejuiceforgrownups]

Go back and keep your head down, do your 3 months, don't get involved in office politics, don't stay late, take all your lunch breaks, suck it up then leave! They are well used to people doing this in places that have the 3 month rule. Could you take some of the A/L you accrued over mat leave eg every Friday off to make it more part time?