Return to Work FAQs

Further information can be found on our Return to Clinical Practice (nhs.scot) webpage.

What if I want to change my return to work date?

You will need to agree your provisional return to work date when you apply for parental leave, however this can be changed with notice.  You should inform your lead employer, your educational supervisor, your clinical supervisor and your TPD if you wish to do this.

What are keeping in touch days (KIT days) and how do I arrange them?

Both you and your employer can instigate KIT days to allow you to engage with training during your time off and ease your return to work.  You can have up to 10 of these during your period of additional maternity leave, which you will be paid for.  These should be part of your pre-absence discussion. 

What if I would like to return less than full time?

If this is the case, you should follow the usual process for applying for LTFT training, which can be found here.

What about childcare?

Arranging childcare for doctors in training can be difficult, especially if you are working shifts or have more than one child.  We recommend that you think about this well in advance.  You may need to register your child for nursery before you have access to your work timetable, and many parents choose to request full time childcare initially, even if they eventually plan to work less than full time (it is often easier to relinquish a place than ask for an additional one). 

As a taxpayer, you are also entitled to the government’s tax-free childcare scheme. 

What if I am still breastfeeding when I return to work?

If you are breastfeeding your baby and wish to continue doing so after you return to work, your lead employer should help you support this.  Please consult your supervisor and HR team for local advice / support.

What if I need to take time off because my child is sick?

All children get ill at times!  We recommend that you agree with your clinical supervisor in advance what you would do in this situation.  If your child is unwell for longer than a couple of days, you may be expected to make alternative arrangements for their care to allow you to return to work.  

What if I wish to take time off with my child for another reason?

Many employers have provision for parental leave, which can be used for a variety of reasons to benefit the child’s welfare.  Arrangements vary and you should discuss this with your lead employer.

Where can I get more advice and information?

    

The BMA website is a helpful source of further detailed information on this topic.  Members can also contact their helpline for advice.

The Gold Guide includes details about how parental leave may affect training.