Returning to work after an extended absence—whether for maternity leave, sick leave, travel, or caregiving—often requires formal communication with your employer. A return-to-work letter serves as a professional way to confirm your return date, set expectations, and, if needed, request adjustments for a smoother transition. In this guide, we’ll explore how to write a return-to-work letter for various situations, offer tips for making it impactful, and provide templates to suit different circumstances.
Video tutorial
Jump to:
- Video tutorial
- Why write a return-to-work letter?
- General tips for writing a return-to-work letter
- Return-to-work letter templates for different situations
- Template for returning after maternity leave
- Template for returning after sick leave
- Template for returning after extended travel
- Template for returning after caregiving leave
- FAQs: How to write a return to work letter
- Conclusion
- Further reading and resources
Why write a return-to-work letter?
A formal return-to-work letter is beneficial for several reasons:
1. Clear communication:
It sets a clear return date and addresses any requests for flexible arrangements.
2. Documentation:
This letter provides a written record of your return plan, helping to avoid any misunderstandings.
3. Professionalism:
Writing a return-to-work letter shows your commitment to a smooth transition back into your role.
General tips for writing a return-to-work letter:
Familiarise yourself with your employer’s policies and any recent changes in employment law. For instance, as of April 6, 2024, UK employees have the right to request flexible working arrangements from the first day of employment, reflecting a significant shift in workplace flexibility norms.
Return-to-Work Letter Templates for Different Situations
1. Returning After Maternity Leave
If you’re returning after maternity leave, a return-to-work letter provides an opportunity to confirm your date of return and, if needed, request flexible arrangements.
Template for returning after maternity leave:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Postcode]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to confirm my intent to return to work on [insert return date] following my maternity leave.
I would like to express my gratitude for the support provided during my leave, and I am eager to rejoin the team. To ensure a smooth transition, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss [any adjustments, such as part-time hours, remote working, or a phased return]. I believe these arrangements will help me balance my responsibilities effectively as I resume my role.
Please feel free to contact me on [phone number or email] to discuss this further. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
2. Returning After Sick Leave
For those returning after sick leave, it’s helpful to confirm your readiness to return to work and, if necessary, request any workplace adjustments to accommodate your health.
Template for returning after sick leave:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Postcode]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to confirm that I will be returning to work on [insert return date] following my sick leave. I am pleased to report that my health has significantly improved, and I am eager to resume my duties as [job title].
To ensure a smooth transition, I would be grateful if we could discuss any adjustments to my workload or environment that may be necessary. I am committed to maintaining my productivity while prioritising my health and well-being.
Thank you for your continued support. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number or email] to arrange a meeting.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
When returning after sick leave, it’s advisable to reference any medical guidance or fit notes provided by your healthcare professional. The UK government’s fit note system allows healthcare professionals to suggest adjustments to support your return to work.
3. Returning After Extended Travel
If you’ve taken an extended period of leave for travel, your letter can confirm your return date and demonstrate your enthusiasm for resuming your role.
Template for returning after extended travel:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Postcode]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to confirm my return to work on [insert return date] following my extended leave for travel. I am looking forward to reconnecting with the team and resuming my responsibilities as [job title].
I appreciate the opportunity to take this leave, and I am eager to bring a renewed perspective to my work. Please let me know if there are any updates or changes within the team that I should be aware of as I prepare for my return.
Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to contributing fully once again. If there’s anything specific you would like to discuss, please feel free to reach me at [phone number or email].
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
4. Returning After Caregiving Leave
If you have been on leave to care for a family member, your letter can address your readiness to return and any adjustments you may need as you transition back.
Template for returning after caregiving leave:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Postcode]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to confirm my intent to return to work on [insert return date] following my caregiving leave. I am grateful for the support I received during this time, and I am looking forward to resuming my responsibilities as [job title].
To ensure a smooth transition back to work, I would appreciate the chance to discuss any flexible working options that may be available. I believe that [mention specific request, such as a phased return, part-time hours, or remote working] would help me manage my caregiving responsibilities while fulfilling my role effectively.
Thank you once again for your understanding. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number or email] to arrange a meeting.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
FAQs: How to write a return to work letter
Watch our free course on how to write a return to work letter
Conclusion

A return-to-work letter is a professional way to communicate your plans to your employer and set the stage for a successful transition back into the workplace. Whether you’re returning from maternity leave, sick leave, travel, or caregiving, using the appropriate template can help you clearly convey your intentions, show gratitude, and request any necessary adjustments.
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Further reading & resources
Looking to dig deeper into your rights and return-to-work readiness? Start here:
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