What you need to know about Returning to Work
Deciding how and when to go back to work isn’t an easy decision. However, help is at hand and your options may well be a lot more flexible than you expect. Here’s why.
What happens if I don’t return to work?
You need to let your employer know in writing at least 21 days before your parental leave ends.
What about if I want to go back to work?
If you plan to go back to work after your parental leave you also need to let your employer know in writing at least 21 days before your leave ends.
Can I go back to work early?
Yes. You can return to work early under some circumstances.
These include loss of your child as result of miscarriage, stillbirth or illness. You can also do so if you’ve made arrangements for your child’s care or have opted for adoption.
If your employer agrees, you may also return to work early in any other circumstances.
In all cases, you’ll need to write to your employer 21 days before the date you intend to return.
Can I work part-time or from home?
Working arrangements are becoming increasingly flexible and many employers are happy to consider these.
You also now have the right to ask for flexible working arrangements from your employer.
So working part-time or from home shouldn’t be a problem if it fits with your employer’s business. However, if you want to alter your working arrangements, you’ll need to make a formal request.
Are there other flexible work options?
Yes, there are heaps. To check out what’s available, visit:
http://www.dol.govt.nz/worklife/flexible/definitons.asp
How can I request flexible work?
You’ll need to make a request in writing and the sooner you do so the better.
Your employer must respond within three months and must consider your request carefully.
Requests can only be declined on eight recognised business grounds and these must be clearly explained.
To be eligible you need to have been employed by the same employer for at least six months and not have requested flexible work during the past 12 months.
For find out how to make a request and to download a standard form, visit:
www.dol.govt.nz/worklife/flexible/factsheet-request-process.asp
For more detail, visit:
www.dol.govt.nz/worklife/flexible/guidelines.asp
How can I change things if they don’t work out?
You can only make one request in 12 months and any changes you agree to will be permanent unless agreed otherwise.
This means you’ve got to be pretty certain that the flexible work you’ve requested is going to work out. That’s often difficult to know so it’s best to agree to a trial period with your employer before opting for a permanent arrangement. You’ll find most employers will be happy to try a trial period first.
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This page was last updated on:
19-May-2009
and is current. |
