Hi Sascha,

It is a tricky one.. Before I went on maternity leave, the assistant manager of my company made it clear that it would be full time or nothing for me.. I respected that, however due to some changes at DH work, I have had to go to work part time, DD is just 4 months now. I didn't even approach my work to ask if I could come back part time, just advised that I was going to apply for some pt/cas work in another industry and that I would like to use them as a reference.. Less than 3 hrs later, I was offered my job back part time. A case of they realised that I was willing to look elsewhere and I might enjoy it and not come back..

Before having DD, I was in 2 minds as to whether after a year if I would return full time. Since having DD and working P/T now, my decision has been made, just need to inform work.. I however have the advantage that I am not fussed whether they allow me to stay on or not. I will easily find something else if they let me go, as I am not fussed what I do, as long as I can spend time with my family.. I don't want to come home to bath, feed and put DD to bed (that is what I am doing on the days I work at moment), it isn't fair on either of us. My famikly comes 1st, work just helps to give us some luxeries..

With your boss in a similar position (i.e on maternity leave), you may have a sympathetic view and they may work with you. I too would love to keep working where I am, but I understand their position. They will either accept it or they won't..

However I wouldn't mention that you have no intention of returning full time.. You don't know what is around the corner. 6 months ago, the figures said I didn't even need to return part time. If you feel that you need to be upfront, tell them that you are undecided. No one can really expect you to make a decision on how you will feel post baby especially if this is your first. We all have our visions, and for some they are very close to what happens, for others they are dreams.. If they really want to keep you, they will come up with something for you, if not they are probably not going to be flexible with your needs as a working Mum which will cause undue stress..

Good luck, and let us know your decision.. Will let you know when I have plucked up the courage to tell my work my decision.