Adoption leave confirmation and return to work notification

After receiving notice of adoption (see Adoption Leave Notification form), an employer should write to their employee to confirm the employees leave period and pay entitlement.

Adoption Leave Period and Adoption Pay Entitlement Confirmation Letter

This letter should be used to confirm an employee's entitlement for adoption leave (their ordinary adoption leave or OAL and additional adoption leave or AAL), the start and end dates of their adoption leave and any entitlement for statutory adoption pay (SAP).

This letter is up to date with recent changes in adoption regulations. (Entitlement to contractual benefits during AAL changed in October 2008:  the full adoption period has changed from 26 weeks; notice period for early return notification has changed from 28 days). It is essential that any letter sent out reflects these changes.

In addition, the letter explains to an employee the last date by which they need to return to work after their adoption placement and that they must give the appropriate amount of notice (i.e. the amount required by law) if they wish to return to work before the end of their adoption leave entitlement.

Finally, the letter provides an explanation of Keep In Touch days (KIT days) that should be included to ensure the employee can be contacted during their adoption leave period. It also allows an employer to request the employee to work (or attend training) during their adoption leave (for up to ten days).

Intention to Return to Work after Adoption Leave Form

Included in this pack is a form for the employee to complete and send back. This form is used to confirm when they intend to return to work (or whether they do not intend to return). Using this form helps ensure the correct information is received from employees as quickly as possible (and within the timeframes required by law).