Applying for new jobs whilst on mat leave

[Penvelope]

I've seen an absolutely perfect job that I really want to apply for.

It's advertised on NHS jobs but it's actually for the civil service. I think it would have previously been an NHS job before PCTs became extinct and public health became responsibility of local gov. I currently work for a CCG which is considered NHS until March 2015 and then will become a stand alone organisation (complicated.............).

The problem is I'm on mat leave at the moment and I'm not due to go back till October.

So if I applied for the job and got it, I'm assuming I would have to pay back my mat pay because I haven't gone back to work for NHS? Or would I be ok because they're both public sector?

Has anyone changed jobs whilst on mat leave and had to pay back their mat pay? Is it worth it?

PS. I really couldn't afford to pay mat pay back as I got full pay for 6 weeks and half pay for 6 months.

PPS. I really hate my current job and I'm dreading going back

Depending on when you would have to start the new job you could go back to your old job for about 1 month then hand your notice in you then shouldnt have to pay your maternity back but if you choose not to return at all then yes yopu will have to pay it all back im afraid.

You need to check the terms and conditions in your maternity policy to see under what circumstances it needs to be paid back. I doubt it would be a case of working in any public sector organisation meaning you don't need to, but the terms and conditions of enhanced pay should be clear.