Returning to work after maternity leave can be a significant transition for both employees and employers. Whether you’re excited, nervous, or a mix of both, planning your return thoughtfully can ease the process. This guide explores your rights, how to communicate effectively, and provides templates to make the transition smoother.
Jump to:
- Understanding your rights when returning to work after maternity leave
- How to announce your return to work
- Sample email templates for returning to work after maternity leave
- Sample text message templates for returning to work after maternity leave
- Tips for a smooth transition
- Creative ways to celebrate the transition
- Addressing common concerns
- Conclusion
Understanding your rights when returning to work after maternity leave
Before stepping back into your role, it’s crucial to understand your rights:
Your job
You have the right to return to the same job if you’ve taken 26 weeks or less of maternity leave.
Flexible working
You can request flexible working arrangements after maternity leave. This could include part-time hours, remote work, or a phased return.
Role changes
If your job has changed significantly during your leave, your employer must offer a suitable alternative role with equal terms and conditions.
For more detailed advice, consult resources like ACAS or your employment contract.
Clear and proactive communication helps both parties plan effectively. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
How to announce your return to work
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Sample email templates for returning to work after maternity leave
Notification of return to work
Subject: Return to Work After Maternity Leave
Dear [manager’s name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inform you that I will be returning to work on [date], following the completion of my maternity leave.
Please let me know if there are any preparations I should be aware of before my return. I would also be grateful if you could confirm the working hours, schedule, and any updates or changes to the team or company policies.
I look forward to reconnecting with the team and resuming my role. Thank you for your support during my leave, and I am excited to get back to work!
Best regards,
[Your name]
Notification of return date
Subject: Confirmation of Return to Work Date
Dear [manager’s name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to confirm my intention to return to work on [date] following my maternity leave. Please let me know if you require any further information from me before my return.
Thank you for your support during this time.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Flexible working request
Subject: Request for Flexible Working Arrangements
Dear [manager’s name],
I hope you are doing well. As I prepare to return to work on [specific date], I would like to discuss the possibility of [specific arrangement, e.g., working from home on specific days, reducing hours]. I believe this arrangement will allow me to balance my responsibilities effectively while maintaining productivity in my role.
Please let me know a convenient time to discuss this further.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Informing colleagues
Subject: Excited to Return to Work
Dear Team,
I’m excited to share that I’ll be returning to work on [specific date] after my maternity leave. I’m looking forward to catching up with everyone and contributing to our ongoing projects. Please feel free to reach out if there’s anything I should be aware of before my return.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Returning with a phased return
Subject: Confirmation of Return to Work with Phased Return Plan
Dear [manager’s name],
I hope you’re doing well. As my maternity leave comes to an end, I would like to confirm that I will be returning to work on [date]. As discussed earlier, I will begin with a phased return plan, working [mention hours, days] to ease into the full schedule.
Please let me know if there are any additional steps I should take prior to my return.
I look forward to joining back and easing into the transition.
Warm regards,
[Your name]
Returning after parental leave
Subject: Return to Work After Parental Leave
Dear [manager’s name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to let you know that I will be returning to work after my parental leave on [date]. I am excited to reconnect with the team and resume my responsibilities.
Please feel free to let me know if there are any preparations I should be aware of before my return.
Thank you for your support throughout my leave. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your name]
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Sample text message templates for returning to work after maternity leave
Returning to work text to your manager template
Hi [manager’s name],
Just a quick note to confirm that I will be returning to work on [date]. Please let me know if there’s anything I need to prepare or if there are any changes I should be aware of before then. Thanks!
Best, [your name]
Returning to work text to your colleagues template
Hi team,
I hope you’ve all been well! I wanted to let you know that I will be returning to work on [date] after my maternity leave. I’m looking forward to catching up with everyone and getting back into the swing of things. If there’s anything important I need to know before my return, feel free to reach out!
Best,
[your name]
Tips for a smooth transition
Creative ways to celebrate the transition
Returning to work is a significant milestone. Here are some thoughtful gestures:
A welcome gift:
- Employers can consider a small token, like a care package or flowers, to make employees feel valued.
Team lunch:
- Organising a lunch or coffee meeting helps reintegrate returning employees.
Personal milestone recognition:
- Share achievements or updates with colleagues to foster connections.
Addressing common concerns
Join the ivee community!
Join our Facebook group. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with like-minded returners, seek advice on returning to work after maternity leave, or share your experiences, our Facebook community is here to help you navigate your journey back into the workforce.
You’ll find:
👉 Latest regulatory changes regarding maternity leave
👉 CV templates for women returning to work
👉 Latest industry updates
👉 Resources and guides to help you on your job hunt
👉 Confidence-building events, webinars and advice on all aspects of returning to work
Our Facebook community
Conclusion
Returning to work after maternity leave is a significant step. By understanding your rights, planning your communication, and utilising the templates provided, you can navigate this transition confidently.
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