Pregnant on career break, mat leave pay NHS

[Shenzys]

Hi, I just started my 12 month career break and found out I’m pregnant. My career break ends in March 27. I have to tell my NHS employer that I’m pregnant by July based on my due date but is it wishful thinking if I tell them this, then cancel my career break 3 months before my due date (as per policy states) in the hope that mat leave starts and I’ll get maternity pay?
I still maintain continuous service with my career break but otherwise policy is not clear!
i want a clean move from career break to mat leave but somehow I feel this won’t work…

Please could you post a bulleted timeline? I'm finding the dates you mention quite confusing

Sure sorry.
Career break start: March 2026 for 1 year
Due date: November 2027
Tell employer I’m pregnant: July 2026
Cancel career break: August 2026 (that gives them the 3 month notice until Nov when I’m due to move straight into maternity leave)

I hope that’s clearer.

Your NHS maternity pay is based on your AWE (average weekly earning) across the 8 weeks prior to 15 weeks before your due date - if youre on a career break I would guess this is unpaid? But I could be wrong

I would contact your trusts HR team for some confidential advice they will be able to give you a clear answer ☺️