On mat leave with first child and pregnant with second

[AnnabelS]

Hi all

I'm currently on paid mat leave with my first child, however was planning to take unpaid leave too. I think I may be pregnant with second child (wasn't meant to happen that quick!) - I know they work out mat leave pay based on 15 weeks before EWC (the 8 weeks before average pay). If I keep to my plans I will be on unpaid leave in that week and the 8 weeks before it. Does this mean that I won't get the company maternity pay during my second mat leave? I think then I may have to go back early in order to get any money over and above SMP.

Thanks

Sorry, have absolutetly no advice to offer but have often wondered what happens in these situations

Do you have a union you can speak to and ask?

no you don't, well at least in the nhs and this includes no SMP. it will be in your mat policy if you can get your hands on it - you'll get one unpaid year from date of confinement.