Becoming a parent is life-changing, and stepping away from work for maternity leave brings excitement, emotion and a very real sense of uncertainty. The period away from your routine, your colleagues and your role can be daunting, and many women return feeling like they are starting from scratch.
A Personal Experience That Shows Why Support Matters
My experience was the opposite thanks to the culture at Ramtech and the parental policies offered through Halma. The Halma maternity cover of fourteen weeks for both men and women is far more generous than what many companies provide, and it reflects a belief that families need real time together, not just the minimum statutory allowance. It also demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and equality by offering the same entitlement to all parents. However, the policy alone was not the reason my return felt so positive. What made the difference was the way Ramtech supported me throughout my leave.
Staying Connected Through Regular Catch Ups
One of the biggest challenges for new mothers is the feeling of losing touch with work. Ramtech removed that fear completely. I had regular catch ups with my manager and the team while I was away, not because I had to, but because they genuinely wanted me to feel connected. These conversations kept me in the loop with key updates, new projects and changes across the business.
It also reassured me that when I returned, I would not walk into a role that felt unfamiliar. I knew what the team was working on, how the business was progressing and where I would fit back in. That level of communication made a huge difference to my confidence.
This approach aligns strongly with Halma’s values about supporting people through life transitions and investing in long-term employee wellbeing. More information on Halma’s culture can be found on their website.
The Value of KIT Days and Staying Engaged
I made full use of KIT (Keep In Touch) days, and I cannot emphasise enough how beneficial they were. KIT days allowed me to come in for important meetings, align on plans, and reconnect with colleagues. They were flexible, supportive and designed to make the transition smoother rather than overwhelming.
Using KIT days meant I never felt like a “fish out of water” when I walked back into the office. I felt prepared, familiar with our projects and ready to pick up where I left off. This is something I now encourage every parent at Ramtech to take advantage of, because the difference they make is remarkable.
More details about Ramtech’s culture of support can be found on our People and Culture page.
One of the biggest challenges for new mothers is the feeling of losing touch with work. Ramtech removed that fear completely.
Charne Prentice - Marketing Manager
A Policy That Supports Families, Not Just Mothers
One thing I wish I had access to personally was the same fourteen-week parental leave that Halma provides for men. My husband only received a brief two-week allowance from his employer, and the difference was felt immediately. The early newborn period is intense, physically and emotionally demanding, and having both parents present makes a meaningful difference.
Halma’s equal approach to maternity and paternity cover shows an understanding of the realities families face. It recognises that caregiving should not fall solely on mothers and promotes equality inside and outside the home. This approach supports family wellbeing and encourages a more balanced transition back to work.
The importance of strong parental leave is outlined in studies such as those from the U.S. Department of Labor (https://www.dol.gov), which highlight the long-term benefits of equal parental involvement.
Returning to Work With Confidence and Support
When I finally returned to Ramtech, I walked into an environment where I felt seen, supported and prepared. The team welcomed me back with genuine warmth, and the transition into my role was smoother than I expected. I never felt like I had lost my place or relevance in the business. Instead, it felt like a continuation, strengthened by time away and supported by thoughtful planning.
Strong culture is not built through policies alone. It is built through how those policies are brought to life, and Ramtech embodies this. My experience was a true reflection of our belief that people matter, families matter and careers can flourish alongside personal milestones.
For any parent preparing to take maternity leave or return from it, knowing you have a supportive environment can make all the difference.
Charne Prentice - Marketing Manager
A Culture That Helps You Thrive as a Parent and a Professional
Halma maternity cover provides the foundation, but Ramtech delivers the lived experience. The combination of generous parental leave, consistent communication, flexible KIT days and a team that genuinely cares created a return-to-work experience that felt empowering rather than overwhelming.
For any parent preparing to take maternity leave or return from it, knowing you have a supportive environment can make all the difference. Ramtech is a strong example of what it looks like when a company invests in its people at every stage of life, not just during the working hours.