How much time maternity leave lasts in the UK?

My employer agreed i could go back part time after my maternity leave, now says no?

• im currently on maternity leave till jan 2009, my employer has said verbally ever since i found out i was pregnant in sept 2007, that i can come back to work part time. in July 2008 i had a meeting with my employer regarding part time hours, he wanted me to come back 13th jan and work tues,wed,thurs 9am till 4pm. i agreed and i organised a nursery for my son whildt i work in jan. i asked for this in writing and he said he would send it in few days, ever since the july meeting i have been ringing up work asking for my acceptance letter and was being totally ignored. i emaIed another copy to my boss sept 1st, and last week told to pop in for 5mins. i thought it was to sign a new contract and they turned round and said i ***** come back part time it has to be full time! i was really distressed and upset, in tears i had no support and they said if i didnt agree i wouldnt get my maternity pay any more. ive out in a formal grievance against them, what are my rights in this situation and acas told me a verbal agreement is legally binding still. can i take an outsider as my representative? in in the uk thanks

• Answer:

  I would see a solicitor right away, employers now have to work around employees with children and as you were on leave to have a baby you have even more right to say which hours you can and cannot do. It is the law that you cannot be sacked/ laid off as long as you can work a minimum of 16 hour being worked a week hope this helps