Gee Tiff, that is a toughie. At my local hospital, one of the midwives only works weekend dayshifts, is that an option for you? then Dave can look after the kids? Can you get an in-home carer/nanny? I don't think that you have lost any skills at all so I don't think that would be an issue, but I can see why you'd be put off by what your NUM has said.

It is a hard decision, but I am sure you will choose the one that is right for you.