HR QUESTION - maternity/annual leave

[TTCbaby2x]

In short, I go back to work next year (new annual leave year, my annual leave runs from april - march) I started my maternity leave april 2024, when I left I had accrued 18 days holiday to use at the end of my Mat leave. When I go back I'll be into the new holiday year so will have my 18 accrued from the previous year and then my whole set of new holidays. My question is I am planning on going back 3 days a week (previously done 4) if my 3 days a week is approved am I right in saying my work will have to honour my full accrued 18 days leave still and I can spread these out over the new 3 day week? Meaning I'll get an additional 6 weeks off at the end of my Mat leave... They can't shorten my accrued holidays based on the new working days can they as they was already accrued while on Mat leave based on my 4 days a week? Sorry if this is confusing. Confusing to me too.

Yes they have to honour all your accrued leave. Either by allowing you the time off or paying you for it.

You will still have your annual leave accrued but your workplace can say you need to use it before moving to a part time contract, which many do.

@Completelyjo yes I was thinking that could be a possibility too. As long as I know they can't deduct holidays from my already accrued leave if the 3 days a week is approved then that's ok. I have submitted the form to change my hours and it asks when to start this from which I've put the end of my mat leave (not after hols) so hoping I can get away with the further 6 weeks off if all goes well!!