Universal credit after maternity leave

[blps]

I am meant to go back to work in November but since I have annual leave booked that leaves me with a return to work date of 13th of December. The childcare arrangements I had were not compatible with my work shift as they could only have my baby Monday to Thursday and I am meant to work Monday to Friday. I will have to formally resign from my job as I’ve no family or other childcare options atm. I am just panicking that I could be sanctioned by universal credit for not returning to work after maternity leave ends? Does anyone know if this can happen or will they be understanding? I have left a message on my journal since we’re already at the end of October and explained the situation. Still waiting for a reply. Any advice would be very much appreciated. Thank you all.

Have you spoken to your employer and put in a flexible work request that's been refused or have you jumped to quitting? I ask because I'd imagine that's what the DWP will ask you.

You can find more information on the Gov website here

www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-and-your-claimant-commitment-quick-guide/universal-credit-and-your-claimant-commitment

Could you do a flexible working request to either drop to 4 days or work extended hours for 4 days so you are doing 5 days hours over 4 days?

Speak to your employer