Asking what others would do? Name changed at outing for people I know who I’ve spoken about this to.
I am currently on maternity leave and we are using universal credit top up. Never used it before maternity leave and only having to use it since I had to leave work very early due to a really terrible pregnancy. We also had some very unexpected financial difficulties last year and cost of living has hit us.
Looking at financials of returning and I would be making a £700 loss monthly if I returned to work. This makes absolutely no sense that using benefits means we are actually far better off.
I’ve looked at several different scenarios, DH working more/less hours for childcare. If we would get universal credit top up whilst working (we just miss it). I’ve looked at everything but everything points to loosing money. My contract is set in a way where I can’t currently increase my hours but it was job I was working in for progression.
We can not afford to loose this amount of money monthly. I do however want to work however I am now considering leaving work until my baby is older and then going back to work. However I’m not sure I’m comfortable with it.
I’m not someone who ever considered using benefits, has always worked hard and will always go back to work. Just find it strange that we are in this position.
Am I overlooking something here?