How should I go about changing my work pattern after my maternity leave?

It is a good idea to start the process informally, by talking to your employer or just getting in touch to say you would like to discuss changing your work pattern. It may not be necessary to use your legal rights.

Try to start things off well before you are due back from maternity leave, if you can. This is because if you do need to use the formal process and your employer and you do not agree on what’s possible in your workplace, things can go on for up to 14  weeks.

If you have been employed by the same employer for at least 26 weeks, you will have the right to request. Your maternity leave counts towards the 26 weeks. The right to request is a formal process where your employer has to hold meetings with you and give you a decision in writing.

If you do need to use the formal right to request, it is a good idea to use the government form if you can. This makes sure you supply all the information you need to.

For the government form to apply for flexible working, look for the flexible working application template on Direct Gov

There is a video about changing your hours after maternity leave here