Returning Back To Work After Maternity Leave

[Twilz]

I left to go on maternity leave in march doing 36 hours a week on days however my employer has said that I must do nights. Do they have the right to do this or are my rights being infringed. I am due back in December. I am a nurse in a care home.

[mushroom25]

this is a bit long-winded, but it should tell you what you need to know.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/mothers/

[ubasses]

http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/employment/employment-terms-and-conditions/flexible-working/flexible-working-and-work-life-balance.htm

The above may help.

[Twilz]

Thank you for your comment. I have looked on the link you provided but have not really found an answer but thank you.

[soapnumpty]

Ive just returned to work after a years maternity leave. I'm not sure if this helps but for the first six months they have to keep your role open for you to return to. After six months they are only obligated to offer you a job of the same level and pay. It does not have to be your previous role. Since you will have been off longer than six months, maybe they are entitled, but someone with an employment law background maybe able to advise you better.

[Buenchico]

You need to read the 'statement of employment particulars' which your employer was legally obliged to provide you with within two months of commencing employment. If it states that your hours are, for example, "from 0800 to 1600" it probably unlikely that your employer could lawfully switch you to night shifts without your consent. However if it states that your hours are "as may be required by the employer" you might find it hard to argue against the change.

I suggest calling the ACAS helpline. It can take time to get through but their staff really know their stuff:
http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2042

[Twilz]

That sounds very helpful

[Old_Geezer]

It seems unlikely that someone of 'gender: male' wold be offered maternity leave.

[bednobs]

yes, although very true OG i can't really see its relevance. The OP is asking about mat leave, not paternity leave.

[boxtops]

I believe they can - it's employment which is held for you, not (IMO) your specific job.

[Old_Geezer]

Exactly so bednobs: exactly so.