Maternity Leave

[Stargrower]

One of my staff is expecting twins in March and is starting maternity leave in February. As the twins will be her third and fourth children, she may not return to work. Does anyone know when she needs to tell me that she is definitely not coming back? Does she just give a month's notice before the end of her maternity leave? From my point of view, the earlier I know, the better, but I'm not sure what the law says and haven't been able to find out online.

Thanks everyone.

[eyfs1966]

This site will be able to tell you all you need to know

https://www.gov.uk/maternity-pay-leave/leave

[Stargrower]

Thank you. The nearest I can find is that you need to give your employer eight weeks notice if you wish to change your return to work date. Do you think that includes not returning to work at all?

[eyfs1966]

Actually I THINK (but don't quote me) that notice periods remain the same whilst on maternity leave, so I would guess that If your contract says 4 weeks notice, then they could just give you that. I am sure an expert will be along soon to answer more accurately.

[SazzJ]

She needs to notify you 4 weeks before the end of her mat leave if she is returning or not.

 

Up until the point she doesn't need to let you know if she does or doesn't want to return

[SazzJ]

You can't ask her either Frustrating I know but having not long been back off mat leave myself I knew what my committee could and could not do.

 

However you can advertise for mat cover leave and them nearer the time offer them a permant position if they are any good and she doesn't return x

[Stargrower]

Thanks SazzJ - it's good to have a definite answer! :1b