The original poster said that HR needed this as she was requesting 'additional' leave. If this is over and above the statutory requirements then they can ask her whatever they like.

In these cases, irrespective of what you think peoples' motives are..........get proper advice.

Agree with the others. I think your employer is not entitled to ask you some or all of those questions (breaking the law, in fact), so don't answer unless you are sure you have to. If they insist, make sure you take proper advice before doing anything.

Hi there. Congratulations on having a baby!

I am also not sure your employer is asking for something legal. You have the right to stay out of work for one year and they have the obligation to keep your job for you when you come back. You can choose to come back earlier than one year from the date when you leave, and you'd need to notify them a few weeks before you come back if you wanted to do so.

check out http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Moneyandworkentitlements/WorkAndFamilies/Pregnancyandmaternityrights/index.htm

Hello Fooxy

You might like to look at the website:

www.maternityaction.org.uk

and download some of their information sheets, particularly the info sheet on "Pregnancy and Maternity Rights at Work".

I'm not sure whether your employer is entirely within their rights to ask you some of these questions so it would be worth checking.

You could also give Maternity Action a ring on 0845 600 8533 and I'm sure they would be able to advise you and help with the letter if necessary. I have rung them in the past myself and they were very helpful.

Rachel

I imagine that they just need your plans in writing, there is nothing to worry about with regards to the form the letter takes.

Just be clear, with no slang, assumptions or emotions.

If I were you, I would write down each question and then underneath answer it in bullet point format. That simple.

I'd be happy to help you further if you want, send me an email.

Hello everyone
my employ ask my to send them a formal letter to HR to apply for additional leave which states:
-when my maternity period is due to finish
-if I intend to come back full time or if i will be applying for flexible working hours
-my request for additional time off as unpaid leave and reason (briefly)
- expectef return to work date (estimate)
I have no idea how to write formal letters Is there any one could help me with this ??