At which point should I request 60% hours after mat leave?

[BBmybaby]

I’d like to go back to work 60% after mat leave (Im 2 months in) but not sure when to request this change from full time. Our policy doesn’t specify a deadline, it’s just agreed on with HR/manager. We’ve found a nursery that has availability but I’m worried my request might get rejected and then we wouldn’t have childcare for our LO.

What are your thoughts? Should I go ahead and register for nursery and then request part time hours later? Thanks!

Ask first so you can make plans. Don't book a nursery place before you get a response unless you know for sure that you could move to a different job in the same area. You don't know whether your work will agree to it.

The sooner you ask the better for your employer as it gives them a chance to consider how to work around you and recruit if need be.

The sooner you ask the better for you as then you have certainty.

I didn't realise I wanted to reduce my hours until I already had a FT nursery place booked.

Then when I had my 4 days approved (about 4 months before going back), I informed the nursery I would drop a day - all fine!

Also OP, you are only two months in to mat leave - it might be worth waiting a little while so you are 100 percent sure you want to reduce your hours before you do so.

That would be my advice! I hope that helps.

I ask my team to give me three months notice (that’s before the end of the mat leave, not 3 months before they return as they often tag annual leave onto the end of the mat leave) as it takes our organisation that long to process the paperwork and allows me time to advertise the remaining hours, providing I’m able to accept the request.

You need to book a nursery place asap or you could find yourself with no child care! Lots of them you pay deposit and negotiate exact days nearer the time.

Thanks all. My concern is if I tell them early on, would that impact maternity pay and leave accrued or would changes commence as of return from mat leave?

No, it does not. Unless you decide to do it immediately? Most people use accrued leave to be on full pay but reduced hours before formally going to reduced hours.

I'd book the nursery place now. Then work out costs and timings for when you go back and what days you want to work before putting in the request.