Returning to work after maternity leave is a major transition that brings both excitement and challenges. Whether you’re rejoining your previous role or starting fresh in a new one, balancing work and life as a new mother can feel overwhelming. The key to achieving a healthy work-life balance lies in planning, setting boundaries, and making use of available resources. This guide will help you navigate your return to work, understand your rights, and maintain a sustainable balance between your career and family life.
Jump to:
- Understanding your rights when returning to work after maternity leave
- Flexible working after maternity leave
- Maternity leave return to work rights
- How to achieve a healthy work-life balance after maternity leave
- Managing work-life balance as a new mother
- Time management for working mothers
- Balancing career and motherhood: work-life integration
- Overcoming challenges when returning to work after maternity leave
- Coping with Mum guilt when going back to work
- Work-life balance and mental health
- Work-life balance tips for employees returning from maternity leave
- Conclusion: Balancing work and family after maternity leave
- More resources for working mothers
Understanding your rights when returning to work after maternity leave
The right to return to work
In the UK, you have the legal right to return to your job after maternity leave. The details depend on how long you’ve been off.
If you take up to 26 weeks of Ordinary Maternity Leave (OML), you are entitled to return to the same job with the same terms and conditions.
If you take Additional Maternity Leave (AML) beyond 26 weeks, you still have the right to return, but if your exact role is unavailable, your employer must offer a suitable alternative with equivalent pay and conditions.
Flexible working after maternity leave
Balancing work and family can be difficult, so many mothers consider flexible working options. You have the right to request:
✔️ Part-time hours
✔️ Job sharing
✔️ Remote work or hybrid working
✔️ Compressed hours (working full-time hours over fewer days)
✔️ Flexible start and finish times
Employers must consider your request fairly, though they can reject it for valid business reasons. If you’re thinking about requesting flexible working, it’s best to submit your request in writing as early as possible.
It’s important to know that you are protected from discrimination when returning to work.
Employers cannot:
Maternity leave return to work rights
If you believe your rights have been violated, you can seek advice from Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) or your HR department.
How to achieve a healthy work-life balance after maternity leave
Finding balance in life after having a baby is crucial for both your well-being and your career. Work-life balance doesn’t mean splitting your time equally between work and family. It means finding an arrangement that works for your personal and professional needs.
Managing work-life balance as a new mother
Juggling career and motherhood requires planning, communication, and flexibility. Consider the following strategies:
Set realistic expectations:
You may not be able to do everything you used to, and that’s okay. Prioritise your most important tasks at work and at home.
Create a structured routine:
Establishing set work hours, meal times, and bedtime routines can help reduce stress.
Communication openly with your employer:
Be honest about your workload and any adjustments you need. Many employers are supportive of working parents.
Time management for working mothers
Effective time management can make the transition back to work much smoother. Here are some practical work-life balance tips:
✔️ Use a shared family calendar to track important work meetings, childcare schedules, and family commitments.
✔️ Batch similar tasks (e.g., responding to emails in one sitting rather than throughout the day).
✔️ Limit distractions by setting ‘focus hours’ where you turn off notifications and dedicate time to work.
✔️ Set aside quality time for yourself. Whether it’s a short walk, reading, or an evening bath, self-care is essential.
Balancing career and motherhood: Work-life integration
Rather than strictly separating work and personal life, many parents find work-life integration a more achievable goal. This means blending responsibilities in a way that allows you to meet both personal and professional demands.
Overcoming challenges when returning to work after maternity leave
Dealing with work-life balance burnout
Adjusting to a new routine can be exhausting. Watch for signs of burnout, such as constant fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feeling overwhelmed. Here’s how to maintain a good work-life balance:
- Learn to say no – you don’t have to accept every work request or social invitation.
- Delegate at home – share household tasks with your partner or family members.
- Take breaks – short breaks throughout the day can help refresh your mind.
Coping with mum guilt when going back to work
Feeling guilty about leaving your baby can be tough, but remember:
You are setting a great example
Showing your child the value of hard work and independence.
Quality matters more than quantity
Even short, focused time with your child can be more meaningful than long hours of divided attention.
It’s okay to enjoy your work
Being fulfilled professionally doesn’t mean you love your child any less.
Work-life balance and mental health
Returning to work can impact your mental health, so be mindful of your emotional well-being:
Work-life balance tips for employees returning from maternity leave
Find out how to request a phased return to work
Access phased return to work templates below
Phased return request templatesJoin 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: Balancing work and family after maternity leave
Returning to work after maternity leave is a big step, but with the right strategies, you can create a healthy and sustainable work-life balance. Remember:
✔️ Know your rights and options.
✔️ Set realistic expectations for yourself.
✔️ Use time management strategies to stay organised.
✔️ Prioritise your mental health and well-being.
Work-life balance looks different for everyone, so take the time to find what works best for you and your family. With proper planning and support, you can successfully transition back into the workforce while maintaining harmony in your personal life.
More resources for working mothers
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