Maternity Leave During Bench Period in Capgemini: Navigating Leave Policies

Maternity leave is a crucial aspect of any work environment, especially for working mothers. At Capgemini, a leading global professional services company, employees have the right to request maternity leave even during the bench period, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. However, it's essential to understand the company's leave policies and the obligations that come with taking maternity leave during this phase.

Eligibility for Maternity Leave During the Bench Period

At Capgemini, employees are generally eligible for maternity leave regardless of their position or the stage of the employment tenure. The bench period is a specific phase where employees are not actively working but are retained for the company's future projects. Despite this, Capgemini cannot refuse to grant maternity leave if it is approved and the employee meets the eligibility criteria.

Understanding the Bench Period

The bench period is a temporary phase where employees are not assigned any active work due to various reasons such as project completion or understaffing. During this period, employees remain employed and receive a basic salary to support themselves.

Receiving Maternity Leave During the Bench Period

Employees can request maternity leave during the bench period if they are otherwise eligible. The leave application process should be followed according to the company's guidelines. Once the leave is sanctioned, several conditions and obligations come into play.

Post-Maternity Leave: Options and Obligations

Upon completion of the sanctioned maternity leave, employees face a choice. They can either:

Return to work with the same employer and complete the notice period. This would involve resuming active work assignments that were pending before the leave was granted.

Offer to pay emoluments in lieu of the notice period. This option allows employees to receive the emoluments for the notice period without working, effectively concluding their employment on the agreed-upon notice period.

It's important to note that the decision on how to proceed after maternity leave is entirely up to the individual. Capgemini ensures that this decision is made based on the employee's personal circumstances and career goals.

Support and Resources for Maternity Leave

Capgemini recognizes the importance of supporting its employees during such critical times. The company offers comprehensive resources and support to ensure a smooth transition for employees taking maternity leave. This includes:

Consultation with HR teams to discuss the leave application and any related queries.

Access to additional wellness programs and counseling services.

Professional development opportunities that can be utilized during the leave.

The company's aim is to create an environment that supports professional and personal growth, even during periods of leave.

Conclusion

The decision to avail maternity leave during the bench period at Capgemini is both a personal and a professional choice. While the employer cannot refuse to grant such leave provided the employee meets the eligibility criteria, it is crucial to consider the post-leave options carefully before making a decision. Capgemini provides a supportive and flexible environment to ensure that employees can balance their personal and professional lives effectively.

In conclusion, employees should familiarize themselves with the company's leave policies and discuss their options with HR to ensure a smooth transition during the bench period and beyond.