That's one thing I checked before going on leave this time, in their policy they say that paid maternity leave is considered in the continuous service, but unpaid leave isn't. So in that regard I'm still over my 7 years.
To be honest I'm not sure if it all would be worth it in the end. I may just have to see what the boss has to offer, if the part time roll has a bit less pressure and more flexibility then in reality I probably won't actually find anything better.
I didn't think you could have LSL paid out pro rata if you chose to leave your position voluntarily - unless of course you've reached your 10 years. I know pro rata applies after 8, but unless you're made redundant or have an illness or something, I thought you couldn't get it. Is having a baby considered a change in life status though? (Sorry I didn't read the link so if that is in there I apologise).
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