Most workers feel their bosses do not do enough to encourage women on maternity leave to return to work, according to research by Monster.

The poll found that only 17% of workers felt their employers did everything to encourage women back to work, but a further 36% believed that their employer would discourage mothers to return to work because they would rather employ someone without commitments.

Employment legislation provides new and expectant mothers with special rights and protection, including: the right to take time off for antenatal care; maternity leave and pay; return to work to the same job; request flexible working and protection from suffering a detriment or dismissal on pregnancy grounds. 

However, Julian Acquari, managing director of Monster UK and Ireland, said the measures were not enough.

He said: "Our poll demonstrates that, despite legislation, there is still a feeling among workers that new mothers do not receive the support in coming back to work that they deserve from their employers.

"Women’s careers don’t end with having children - many women look forward to rejoining the work force, not to mention that raising a child can be expensive and many new mothers still need to work to provide the vital added income."

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