Am I being sexually discriminated against?

[Tracybabes]

I have worked for my employer for 6 years - the last 4 of which as a full time Senior Support Worker. I am due to returnfrom Maternity Leave (Ordinary Leave of 26 weeks)on 16th April and had written to my employer to request a part-time working pattern for the next 26 weeks until my child is a year old, and following a meeting with my manager today I was informed that in order to change my contract to work part-time I will lose my senior pay and status, and will return to the demoted role of Support Woker. This seems unduly punitive and unfair to say the least but is it supported in Law? Can I be demoted following Maternity Leave simply for requesting a flexible work pattern; a provision afforded me by the Work and Families Act (2006) ? My company is part of a large organisation and has around 250 employees in my region

[tubeway]

As I understand it, you return to work on the same terms and conditions as those that stood when you left. What you are asking to do os to return under different terms and so your employer is entitled to negotiate different terms with you. You could extend your leave (unpaid) for a further six months.
The work and families act says that your employer has to seriously consider flexible hours - but is allowed to reject them for business reasons.
I do not think that you are being sexually discriminated against - as a father who took 6 months off and then requested part time work could be given the same decision.
You need to discuss the reasons with your employer, and try to negotiate with them regards to thos. Good luck