Can I go on Mat Leave less than a year after returning?

[Kayzr]

I am due back at work in August and we are thinking of TTC DC3. This will be at the end of the year and I'll hopefully be due around August, September next year.

But can I do that and still get SMP if I haven't been back a year yet?

Thanks

[ilikeyoursleeves]

Yes, my mat leave starts again tomorrow and I only went back in Nov 2008 . Might depend on your employer though? I am with the NHS. I know others who've gone back to work already PG. Check it out with your HR and good luck TTC #3

[Meglet]

Yes, I'm sure you can. I suspect it is illegal to penalise you for it.

I went back in Oct 07 and went on mat leave again last august.

[geogteach]

I was a teacher and pregnant with DC3 when I went back after DC2. I only worked one term before my next maternity leave started.

[Kayzr]

I'll be back for 9/10 months so will be back for the 6 months before I am 25 weeks.

[flowerybeanbag]

Yes you can. SMP is worked out based on average pay during weeks 17 - 25 of your pregnancy, so as long as you are back at work by then and earning enough to be entitled to SMP, you'll be fine.

[ElfOnTheTopShelf]

Yep, my friend returned to work in the Feb and found out she was pregnant, due in the October. She got her full mat benefits from the company.