Self employed and pregnant

[pootlepod]

I am newly pregnant with number 3 and also self employed, running a business with a friend. Thankfully it's in a semi-understanding business (we run a toddler group) and of course ny business partner has a great understanding of being pregnant.

But it will be a bit different to being employed as although I can take maternity leave I won't get paid and we need to find someone to help out too. Providing I feel up to it I am more than happy to return asap, it is only 2 days a week and a 'lifestyle' business, but realise that it will all be a juggle as it usually is.

So just wondered if there were any stories/tips on this situation. How long did people take off, what happened to your business in the meanwhile and did it set you back?

Hi I am a childminder so in roughly the same boat as you being self employed. Check that you don't qualify for Maternity Allowance its not much but it is £117 and you can claim it for up to 9 months.
You are also allowed up to 10 days during the 9 months where you can work as contact days and therefore it is a good way to try going back to see if you are ready. I know a few childminders who have had maternity leave and tend to take between 2 weeks and 9 months depending on what they can afford to do. HTH

Hi Pootlepod. It's definitely worth checking with your local job centre about maternity allowance. I am self employed and thought I had no chance of any maternity pay, but it turned out that I could get the £117 a week for 9 months which was a big help.

Here's sone info www.direct.gov.uk/en/moneytaxandbenefits/benefitstaxcreditsandothersupport/expectingorbringingupchil dren/dg_10018869 - once you have had the baby, you can only work up to 10 days before it starts affecting your MA, so beware of this if you intend to go back to work quickly.

some info even !