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SAHP

A place for stay at home mums and dads to discuss life as a full-time parent.

Advice- going back to work after maternity

1 reply

Cariad25 · 05/03/2026 17:20

Hi, long story short I'm 3 months into maternity with my second child. Work as a teaching assistant, been there a long time now. The pay is terrible for the responsibility, we are used as supply teachers weekly.
My first child is autistic and non verbal with global delay and undiagnosed adhd. He is in school but I am looking at staying home with my second child until he goes to school and then looking for work again after. We have DLA and should be eligible for mobility DLA aswell this year, I have enquired about UC and and carers allowance. The cost of nursery will be over £600 for us and with the bills I have and thinking of petrol it will be all of my wage. It makes sense for me to stay at home and claim these benefits. Our life isn't easy and it has been a stressful few years, our son has no sense of danger at all, we have had to go to a&e a few times over the last year and I feel like with his needs, two children and working as well it's going to be hard let alone the fact it's not even worth it for me to go. I'm not sure my question, but has anyone been in a similar position?
What would I need to do for this to happen?
I have never seen my contract for some reason but think I need to give a terms notice. Also with paying back maternity, can this be done monthly? The baby would have to go to nursery at least twice if I go back at all maybe 2 and a half days. I think I feel guilt aswell if I don't go back and worry what people will think

OP posts:
Happymchappyface · 05/03/2026 17:39

Congratulations on your new baby.

Probably best to start by requesting a copy of your contract. You should already have it, but if not ask (did you sign one).

If your school has a claw back clause it can only apply to enhanced maternity pay. If you receive stat maternity pay only you won’t have to pay anything back.

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