THE decision about whether to return to work after having a child can be a straightforward one for a lot of people - but for very different reasons.

As soon as some women become pregnant they know they are going to give up their job and become an 'at home mum'. For others, the thought of putting their careers on hold indefinitely is a non-starter and they feel they must return to work to be fulfilled in life.

Of course, neither option is right or wrong, as everyone has different needs and expectations in life. It's also important to remember that some women have to return to work in order to have enough money to survive - they have no choice. Others, who may want to go to work, cannot afford the childcare bills that go hand-in-hand with being a working parent.

Attitudes towards mums in the workplace can vary drastically and there is often a fluctuating scale of support and understanding.

Not only can women feel having children is a handicap as far as working is concerned, they can also feel guilt and discomfort when around stay-at-home parents.

Is the pressure really on working parents? Or, is it accepted as the almost inevitable norm?

Busy Anne Bradshaw's feet barely touch the ground as she balances two jobs and voluntary work with bringing up her 14-year-old daughter and running her Norton Road home with her husband Martin.

Anne is a self-employed agent for NFU Mutual insurance, secretary for the city's NFU branch, part-time lecturer at the University of Worcester and a volunteer for the National Childbirth Trust and local theatre group Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Youth Society.

And this is the second time around the 55-year-old has raised a family while bringing in cash at the same time.

"I have always worked while having children. I don't really know any other way but than to keep myself busy and my mind active. My first two children from my first marriage are grown up now but I worked from when they went to school. I have been lucky as my family has helped with childcare.

"It is a constant juggle but my ability to prioritise has almost become instinctive. My family always comes first, however."

When asked how she felt she was perceived by others, Anne added: "I've never really thought about it. Some people find it hard to see how I fit everything in but, like I say, it's a matter of prioritising and I hope they realise that everybody's different."

On balancing work and children she said: "With my first two I did tend to miss a few school plays and the pressure was on. I have noticed a difference since I've been self-employed. I often work into the night when Lydia is in bed.

"I employ four women and like to think I am flexible and, if they have to go because their child is ill, then of course they can. When you have had children and worked, you understand."

Mum-of-one Jo Knight, of Collings Avenue, Warndon Villages, also counts her blessings as her parents care for 18-month-old Sophie when she is out at work full-time.

"We are very lucky to have brilliant parents who help, as childcare costs are so expensive. They even offered to help us before Sophie was born, so it was never a questions as to whether I would return to work."

The 31-year-old is married to Ben, also 31, and went back to work as an account manager for a publishing company when Sophie was six months old.

She added: "To be honest, it's quite a bit easier than I thought it would be. I don't think I'm treated any differently at work and manage OK. My employers are really good and supportive.

"All of my friends who are mums work and, to me, it's the norm. I don't think I even know a stay-at-home mum."