HR file: Supporting women on maternity leave

There are a number of things employers can do to help women transition smoothly back to work after maternity leave

A recent report by Citizen’s Advice recorded an almost 60% rise in the number of women seeking advice about maternity leave this year, including discrimination, redundancies and unexpected changes to terms of employment.

So what do employers need to know to not only avoid discrimination, but also ensure those on maternity leave feel supported, valued and able to return to work when ready?

The benefits of supporting women who take maternity leave

Fifty-two weeks out of work can feel like a lifetime, and is certainly long enough for new mothers to feel disconnected, de-skilled and under-confident. Add sleep deprivation, career worries and the nightmare that is childcare arrangements, and returning to work can be exceptionally daunting.