Adoption Leave Policy Frequently asked questions
Adoption Leave is structured so that it does not adversely affect your position at work. When you return from Adoption Leave you will return to your original job. In some cases a return to your original job may not be possible, if for example, your department has restructured. If this happens you will be guaranteed to return to a post of a similar grade. In all cases your return to work will be without loss of seniority or status.
This section deals with some of the frequently asked questions about Adoption Leave and returning to work. If you have any queries which are not answered below, please contact Human Resources on ext. 3096 or email: humres@st-andrews.ac.uk.
Returning to work
What happens if I don't want to return to work?
If you decide not to return to work you should inform your Head of School/Unit and Human Resources as soon as you have decided. If you do not return to work then you will normally be required to repay the enhanced element of any Adoption Pay received. If you need further information you should contact the Salaries Office on ext. 2569.
What happens if I want to take an extended period of leave at the end of my Adoption Leave?
In some circumstances it may be possible for you to extend your Adoption Leave period into a career break, but this must be discussed with your Head of School/Unit and Human Resources. Any agreement on extended leave will depend on the varying circumstances of the job and must be approved by the relevant member of the Principal's Office.
Can I come back to work part-time?
You do not have an automatic right to return to work part-time but you are entitled to ask about the possibility of changing your hours. If you think you would like to return to work part-time you should discuss this with your Head of School/Unit as early as possible. Any request will be given reasonable consideration by the University. Please refer to the Flexible Working Policy.
Please note: You should be aware that any change in your hours will be permanent and you do not have a right to revert to full time hours in the future.
What happens if I don't come back to work?
If you do not to return to work on the date agreed and fail to notify the University of your absence then disciplinary action may be taken.
Salary, pension and holidays
Do I still have to pay tax while I'm on Adoption Leave?
Yes – all adoption leave benefits are subject to tax and national insurance in the same way as your salary.
What happens to my pension contributions while I'm on Adoption Leave?
Your membership of either USS or the University's own scheme will be maintained during your paid period of Adoption Leave only. You can arrange to make payments during your unpaid period of leave.
Further details about the options available can be obtained from the Pensions Administrator on ext. 2546.
Do I still get an increment while I'm on Adoption Leave?
Yes – your entitlement to annual increments is unchanged.
What happens to the annual pay award if I'm on Adoption Leave?
You are entitled to the annual pay award and this will be administered as normal.
What happens to my annual leave while I'm on Adoption Leave?
You should make sure that you have taken any holidays accrued before you go on Adoption Leave. While you are on Adoption Leave your annual leave will continue to accrue during the paid period of leave. During the unpaid period of Adoption Leave you will accrue holiday in line with the Working Time Directive.
If you wish to take annual leave at the end of your Adoption Leave you should inform your Head of School/Unit as soon as possible and at least 8 weeks before your adoption leave ends.
Full details of your holiday entitlement can be found in Appendix 2.