returning to work after 6 months maternity leave

[amandabethy]

hi, i am returning to work reduced from 5 days to 3 days and my wage is being pro-rata but my employer is expecting me to do the same amount of work in the 3 days i did in the 5 days but reducing my wage, can he do this?

[Carby]

If you want a job he can! he's your boss. I'm a boss. They do what I say or they go!

[Sparkles3]

As the boss, they can make your life very difficult if you don't do what they say. However, whilst I don't know the legal situation, I can't honestly see that he has a leg to stand on! 5 days work in 3 with 3 days pay? Hardly fair is it? Perhaps speak to the Citizens Advice Bureau so you know where you stand in this sense. Hope it works out.

[curiosity]

what job are you in? are you in a union? This is totally not on. Unless you are paid for the amount of production of something (as in "piece work") then he can only stipulate how many hours you get paid for, not for what you produce in that time. Equally if you are on "piece work" and produce 5 days work in 3 then your wage should be the same.

[Finance Guy]

Carby, you do talk some rubbish! If that is your attitude to employees, I am amazed that they are stupid enough to stay working for you!

Amandabethy, check out www.acas.co.uk and even call them for guidance about your employment rights. Their advise is free and you will be well guided by them.

In principle, your employer sounds like he is being unrealistic and I would suggest that, initially, you have a chat with the boss first and politely / calmly explain the realities of what is being proposed. They may turn out to be more reasonable than you think (hopefully).

Come what may, you cannot be expected to cram 5 days work into three. If you did that and it made your job miserable, it could possibly be interpreted as 'constructive dismissal' in a tribunal.

Good luck