Since moving away to live with my dh about 4 years ago, I have requested for a transfer to my local place of work which is about 10 mins away from where I live but this has been turned down twice. I have since continued to endure a 4 hour round trip each day to get to work. Just before I went on maternity leave with ds2, I was granted a temporary transfer (six weeks prior to leave), as the journey was unbearable, but had to return to my original place of work on my return. After a month, I felt so exhausted that I took a month's annual leave and reduced my working hours to 20 hours (from 30 hours)to accomodate the travel time and picking up the children from nursery/after school club. Not having any luck in finding something suitable locally, I started a one year course this september which involves 6 hours work placement, just so that I can improve my chances of finding something local. I am still working my 20 hour week (flexible hours)just about, but with placement, classes and coursework, I have to admit that I am no supermum and something has got to give. If I request for a career break, will it affect my child care element of tax credit considering my dh also works full-time? I am at breaking point and thinking of taking time off initially but not sure if doctor would sign me off. Sorry for the length of this thread, I just had to let it out as I don't know what else to do. Help.