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SMP vs MA working in the NHS

7 replies

Asdfghj7 · 02/09/2019 15:48

Hi all,
After hours of looking at the gov website, my local policy and forums I was hoping that someone can clarify the difference between SMP and MA.
I have been with the NHS for 11 years but have been offered another job in a new Trust. If I accept it I won't be with the new Trust for 26weeks before the 15th week before I'm due (they really don't phase these things very clearly!). So instead of SMP I would be entitled to MA on top of my occupational mat pay. As far as I can tell these are both £148ish a week.
So my conclusion from this is that I will be paid the same whether I stay in this job and get SMP or I change job and get MA. Does this sound right? I really appreciate any help. I am only 6 weeks pregnant and so I don't want to discuss it with anyone in work. Thanks in advance.

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DustyDoorframes · 02/09/2019 22:59

Would you definitely be entitled to the occupational mat pay though? Mostly you only get that if you are entitled to SMP.

ShallICompareTheeToASummersDay · 03/09/2019 00:17

It makes absolutely no difference to you. SMP is 90% of your salary for 6 weeks then flat rate whereas MA is flat rate from the start. However because you are going from NHS trust to another NHS trust you are entitled to OMP which tops your SMP/MA up to full pay for 8 weeks. So no difference to you, but it will cost your new trust more.

Your new payroll may not understand this so please make sure you get a breakdown of your monthly payments before you go to make sure they get it right.

Asdfghj7 · 03/09/2019 18:05

Thanks for the clarification and the advice. That's really helpful. I will make sure I get it confirmed well in advance!

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Asdfghj7 · 03/09/2019 18:07

Thanks dustydoorframes for the reply. I know I am definitly entitled to the occupational mat pay as that comes with me from years in the NHS, it was the difference between the SMP and MA that was the confusing part and to which my entitlement changes as I have changed trust

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Blushingm · 07/09/2019 07:42

I thought with nhs it goes on nhs length of service not health board/trust?

Bobojangles · 07/09/2019 07:53

I swapped trusts during my first pregnancy, can confirm it makes no difference exceottoh have to remember to claim your MA yourself (just a quick form to fill in) you'll still get your OMP direct from your employer

Asdfghj7 · 07/09/2019 08:01

Great thanks for the reply, reassuring to know it won't make a difference but just a little more effort

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