Returning to Work After Maternity Leave – Trends and Insights for Veterinary Professionals in 2024
Introduction: Returning to work after maternity or any extended leave can feel both exciting and daunting for veterinary professionals, especially in 2024, where industry trends continue to shift post-pandemic. Whether you’re a veterinary nurse, veterinary surgeon, or in another support role, balancing personal responsibilities with professional aspirations requires careful planning. This blog will analyse the current trends for veterinary professionals returning from maternity leave and provide advice on easing back into the workforce.
It’s easy to assume that everything’s going to be back to normal when you return to work, but six, nine or 12 months plus is a long time and there may have been a lot of change at work and most of all, in your own life. However, sometimes it may just not practical to go back into the exact same position / hours etc. E.g. your role involved working 5 days a week with OOH’s and weekends on a rota basis – this may just not be feasible for you to do any more.
Current Trends (September 2024)
- Increased Flexibility in Work Schedules: Veterinary practices have shown a growing trend towards offering more flexible schedules in 2024. With a greater focus on work-life balance, veterinary employers are accommodating staff by offering part-time hours, job shares, or even remote consults where feasible. The industry is seeing more professionals returning from maternity leave with specific requests like working fewer hours, no longer taking night shifts or weekends, or adjusting for school runs. Flexibility is a key factor in retaining skilled veterinary professionals, with practices recognising the value of keeping experienced staff members onboard while adapting to their changing needs.
- Veterinary CPD Refresher Programs and Confidence Building: After months away from clinical practice, many veterinary professionals feel underconfident about returning to the workplace. In 2024, CPD (Continuing Professional Development) refresher courses have become more accessible, helping professionals update their skills. Veterinary professionals returning to practice are increasingly leveraging these programs to regain confidence, stay updated on the latest veterinary medical advancements, and network with colleagues.
- Emphasis on Mental Health and Well-being: Another noticeable trend in 2024 is the veterinary industry’s focus on mental health, especially for those transitioning back to work after extended leave. Returning to practice after maternity or other life changes can be emotionally taxing. Employers are becoming more supportive by offering resources such as counselling, mental health days, or connecting returning staff with mentors to ease their transition. The rising awareness of burnout in veterinary practice has put a spotlight on creating healthier work environments for returning professionals.
- Childcare and Family-Friendly Policies: As more veterinary practices implement family-friendly policies, it’s becoming common for employers to offer additional support for working parents. This includes on-site childcare options or arrangements with local providers. Understanding that veterinary roles often require long and unsocial hours, practices are finding innovative ways to ensure their team can balance veterinary career and family responsibilities effectively.
Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to Work
- Plan Ahead and Communicate: Before you officially return to work, make sure you have open discussions with your employer about your needs. Whether it’s reduced hours, specific shifts, or avoiding on-call duties, communicate clearly about what you can realistically commit to. Many veterinary employers are willing to accommodate staff returning from maternity leave, as long as they understand your situation.
- Use Available Resources: Don’t hesitate to seek out CPD refresher courses if you feel out of practice. These can help you regain confidence in your clinical skills and ensure you’re up to speed with any advancements in veterinary medicine. You might also want to engage in online webinars, attend industry conferences, or shadow colleagues as part of your reintegration.
- Set Realistic Expectations: After an extended leave, it’s easy to feel pressured to jump back into your old role with full enthusiasm. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself, especially if your role has changed significantly due to personal circumstances. Work out what works best for you, whether that’s adjusting your hours or redefining your responsibilities, and be kind to yourself during the transition.
- Leverage Recruitment Services: If returning to your previous role doesn’t work out, there are options available. Agencies like Vet Seekers specialise in finding tailored roles that fit around your new schedule. Many professionals returning from maternity leave or a career break have specific working criteria, such as fewer hours or weekend shifts, and veterinary recruitment agencies can assist in matching you with suitable positions.
Case Study: How Vet Seekers Helped Sarah Return to Veterinary Practice
Sarah, a veterinary surgeon, took an 18-month maternity break. Upon returning, she found her previous 5-day work week with weekend rotas was no longer practical due to childcare responsibilities and her partners job. After discussing options with her employer and realising a part-time role wasn’t feasible, Sarah turned to Vet Seekers. Within 3 weeks, she secured a flexible role that allowed her to work three days a week with no night shifts, which perfectly suited her new schedule. This flexibility allowed her to reintegrate into the veterinary field while maintaining her family commitments.
Is this you?
- Due to childcare, I can only work Monday and Tuesday’s each week…
- I’m only looking to cover one Saturday a month, my partner can hold the fort at home….
- Due to school runs, I can only work between 9.00am – 3.00pm Monday – Friday….
- I would only be able to work two nights per week, Friday and Saturday due to childcare ….
We regularly speak with vets & nurses that are looking to return back to work with specific working days / hours in mind.
If this you, we can help source you a suitable position to match your desired criteria to fit around your current circumstances.
Conclusion
Returning to work after maternity leave in the veterinary field in 2024 offers more options than ever before, thanks to trends like flexible scheduling, accessible refresher courses, and a growing emphasis on mental health. By planning ahead, communicating with employers, and exploring all available resources, veterinary professionals can smoothly transition back into their careers. Whether you’re looking for part-time work, no weekends, or simply a more balanced role, there are more opportunities to find a position that fits your lifestyle.
If you’re a veterinary professional returning from maternity leave and looking for your next role, get in touch with Vet Seekers to explore available opportunities tailored to your needs.
Contact Vet Seekers Today: 📧 hello@vetseekers.co.uk | ☎ 0333 014 7374
