The realisation I’ll have to return to work sooner than I planned has hit!

[Starlight84]

Hoping to finish 20th December when the term ends (depending when section will take place) and was hoping to go back after the summer hols at the start of a fresh new term.
But maternity pay will not cover my monthly bills. So looking likely I’ll have to return to work after February half term.
I am a single mother so my wage is the only one that foots the bills.

Anyone else looking like they will have to return to work early??

I’m not looking for judgement either! I just don’t know how my bills will be paid when my wage drastically drops!

Third baby so no extra help with ctc and wtc

Thank you

I'm so sorry to hear that - what a difficult situation. I'm looking to go on mat leave around the same time as you so feel your pain. Do you have family who can help with childcare?

I am in the same boat. I earn 3x DF wage and his won’t even cover the bills, let alone food etc.

Was going to start mat leave at Feb half term (due March 26th) and wanted to stay off until the Christmas holidays and return to the classroom in Jan but looking more likely I’ll work a few weeks after the half term and return in Sept when baby is 5ish months old. I’m really quite upset by it :(

Are you on statutory?

@Lauraloop1516 it makes me feel sad. My dads retired thank fully! I’m sure this isn’t how he thought he would spend his retirement! He will kill me when he finds out hes on childcare duties 🤣

@Keyboard91 yes it will be statutory. I’ll be ok the first 6 weeks while it’s 90% but when it drops to £148 or whatever it is I won’t be able to do it! Xx

Do you work in a school? If so, your mat leave can start on your due date, it doesn't have to be when a holiday starts. Return can be the day before a holiday begins. That way you don't lose out on pay in the hols

I work in a term time only preschool xx