SMP with private income

[limpim]

Hello

I work for the NHS and will be going on maternity leave in June. The employment contract states that the Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) will be void if I am employed anywhere during my maternity leave.

But it does not say anything about self-employment. I have a side business that can continue during my maternity leave. I am wondering if income from self-employment would void the SMP I am entitled to from the NHS.

Can anyone comment? Or anyone in a similar situation?

Thanks
Limpim

here you go -
Maternity benefits: detailed guide - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

"if you do any work in a self-employed capacity during your MPP, then such work will not affect your SMP."

Thanks very much @PatriciaHolm !

I have an opportunity of self employed work which pays very well.

I am currently employed full time and on maternity leave, claims maternity allowance.
I’ve read my contract which states I am not allowed to work anywhere even out of hours unless I have permission from HR.
A - Can they do this?
B - Will they find out if I don’t tell them?
C - where can I go for advice?

My MA is no where near my salary and I’ve had to save to have the year off.
I have bills I have to pay and I don’t want to leave my beautiful daughter so thinking long term the self employed route is best!

Help I am so confused and baby brain isn’t helping 😀😍🥰🤣

They can do it but in my experience unless the self employment is directly related to your main job (eg the same work contracted to a competitor), or it prevents you fulfilling your main duties (main job 9-5 and second job working til 3.00am) most employers are happy to give approval.

Can you contact HR and ask, there’s usually a form to complete. In terms of whether they will find out, it’s unlikely given it’s self employed cos you’d just do a self assessment for tax but it depends on how small your professional community is - might someone bump into you doing your self employment or might you need to be in contact with someone from your main employment?

Thanks so much. It’s totally different business and would be a lot less hours part time so would not effect my main role.
I’m always very honest which hasn’t always paid off hence why I thought it may be better for me not to mention it. Still not sure what to do 🙈