Going back to work part-time after mat leave - has anyone asked for this?

[Kirova]

I had a KIT day this week and it took it out of me so much that I'm not sure I can actually manage to go back full-time at the moment! Has anyone asked for a part-time return after maternity leave and how was this received if so? I feel like it is a bit cheeky to ask to change the terms of my role straight away on returning...

plenty of people i am sure,
you need to negotiate
and flexible working is a right to request at least

Thanks! I know it must be pretty normal. I'm just getting anxious and in my head about it. My confidence has been a bit rubbish at the moment.

You're entitled to submit a flexible working request, I'm sure. I did and more or less got the hours I'd requested but of course it depends on the needs of the employer

Going back to work after a huge life shift like having a baby can be really daunting. You can talk to your HR department if you're feeling apprehensive

I have, and changed terms again slightly after having DD2.

I work in HR and it is totally normal for women to ask for a change to their working pattern upon return from maternity leave. In fact, I'd say the majority in my experience do, although I appreciate workplaces are different.

The only thing I would say is give them reasonable notice if you want to reduce your hours, it should say in your company maternity policy how much is required.

Most people do where I work. There's a return to work chat and it's discussed there as standard procedure.