Will I be sanctioned

[Augustbaby199]

I'm currently on MAT leave and can't return due to the hours. I did requested flexi hours but was declined.

If I hand my notice in will I be sanctioned by UC because I'm leaving my job. I am going to look for another job or try retrain but im just worried now

Are you a lone parent? If so, you will be ok I think as you will only have to seek work once the child is 3. Not sure if that is the case in couple.

Also, did you get an enhanced maternity pay? If so check your contract. Many places require that you pay whatever you got above the statutory mat pay back if you don't return after your mat leave.

Yes I'm a lone parent. My MAT leave finishes next year so will be handing my notice a month before.

Also I only SMP so won't owe anything back. I've rang them and they said a work coach will ring me. Does that mean I now also have to show im looking for work?

Its hard as I have no support at all so even for interviews I would more likely have to take my DS with me

Get in touch with your local Citizens Advice Bureau, they will go through absolutely everything with you. Many Bureaux have both money advisors and employment advisors.

Thank you. Im going to call them now

You should be ok as there’s not a requirement to look for work if you have a baby

I know you’re looking for a job, just meant it shouldn’t go against you as a sanction if you have to leave your current job

I dont want to be pressured into looking for a job as I have DS 24/7 so I'm glad they won't. I've never dealt with UC until I had DS so didn't know what was going to happen

I still want to look but I want to browse and see what fits us best rather then jump into a job that doesn't suit us.

@Augustbaby199
My friend was in a very similar situation and she got help with money for interview outfits and travel costs and she managed to organise some childcare via her children's centre - a family support worker was allocated to her so she could go to interviews and job fairs and apply for things.
I agree tho don't just take the first job - consider everything beforehand especially the cost of childcare.

Ime they don't ask anything like this. They are having loads of applications every day. I wouldn't worry about it

They wont sanction you if you have a baby. They may ask you to start preparing to prepare to return to work when your child is a bit older. bear in mind though that basic Uc when you are not working is very little. The work allowance of Uc makes it so much better for working people but for those that don't work it is paid at a very low level.