Redundancy on maternity leave

[RedSand]

After 15 years with the same company and a hard climb up to senior management I had the audacity to have my second child. Just before I was due to return to work I was made redundant. Not good when you're in your 40's. Trouble is, I can't face getting back into the corporate nightmare of long hours for good pay and handing over the children to someone else - when would I ever see them? However, I'm not quite the earth mother type and can't help thinking that if I don't start earning again soon then I'll find it even harder to get a job as time goes on. I'm also having problems adapting to being a full time mum and feel quite isolated. Anyone had a similar experience who could offer some pearls of wisdom?

hi RS. sorry to hear your news. Unfortunately i don't have any pearls of wisdom as am still in the rat race, but as a woman on maternity leave you are entitled to additinal protection against redundancy - you should be prioritised for alternative jobs in the company. if this wasn't done you may havwe a case for sex discrimination and the pay out may be a good cushion against having to get another job for a while. xx

Agree that I'd consult a good specialist solicitor -- there's a good chance that you'll have a case for sexual discrimination.

After that -- what did you do? Is there any scope for freelancing/consultancy on a self-employed basis when you want to do it? Have you always fancied being a yoga teacher/aromatherapist/landscape gardener (payout from a sex discrimination case could fund you to retrain).

Whereabouts are you, geographically? Is there a Mumsnet meetup thread for your area? There are several thriving networks of local Mumsnetters who can help avoid feelings of isolation.

Firstly I would also recommend seeing a legal rep re possible sex discriminination as you may be able to get some compensation and it would also put your mind at rest if in the future you wonder if you could have done something about it. Secondly, I know this is easier said than done, but try to see this whole dreadful experience as a wonderful opportunity to change your life for the better. Someone once said to me that nobody ever reads out your CV at your funeral - when people look back on your life you are remembered for your lovely family and friends - not where you reached on the corporate ladder. I know it is very isolating being at home - when I had my DS and started working part time I was at a loss because all of my friends revolved around work and I had spent all the hours in the day concentrating on my job. However, over time I started chatting to people in the street who were out and about during the day (the good thing about feeling lonely is that you start talking to anyone who will listen !) started going to mum and toddler groups (PTA if kids are older) and I joined a gym and went to classes - I found over time I had made new friends and can't imagine what I was thinking about dedicating my life to work! It did take time to meet people (I would say up to a year) but I honestly am happier now than I was before and am now thinking of leaving work altogether. If you really miss the corporate buzz (and it does sound as if you were very sucessful) you could always consider starting up your own business as your skills and talent could be utliised to make money for you and your family rather than someone else. Good luck and a big hug - I think it is a positive change even though it is hard to see this at the moment.

Sorry its taken me so long to respond to your messages. I hired a lawyer and got a great deal which cushioned the blow. I'm currently taking some time out from work and learning to enjoy being at home. Incy, you're message was really appreciated. Thank you so much.
XXX