After Maternity Leave

Please use this toolkit in conjunction with the University’s Maternity Policy which provides greater detail and information.

Your local HR Advisor will also offer individual advice and guidance

The University of Edinburgh is committed to supporting new parents returning to work after Maternity, Shared Parental, or Adoption/Surrogacy Leave. Our Returning Parents' Coaching Programme offers expert guidance to ease your transition back into the workplace. Learn how coaching or mentoring could benefit you by visiting our Coaching and Mentoring pages

Mentoring and Coaching

Family Support

Parental Leave

Parents are entitled to 18 weeks of unpaid leave in relation to any child up to the age of 18.

Partner Leave

Partners are entitled to two week’s paid leave following the birth of a child.

Emergency Time-off for Dependants

Parents are entitled to a reasonable amount of time off work to deal with emergencies involving dependants.

Continuing to Breastfeed

If you wish to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, you must give your manager as much notice as possible before your return.   Your manager will:

  • ensure that a ‘New & Expectant Mothers Risk Assessment’ is carried out with you when you return to work
  • where possible, make arrangements so you can express milk during working hours. This will be arranged in conjunction with the local Facilities Manager or College contact, and
  • be flexible regarding additional regular paid breaks taken to express milk.

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