What should I do?

[GardenGnomes]

I've been on maternity leave since mid May last year. I'm due to go back to work on the 18th May but I've had to move 2 hours away from my work due to my relationship ending.
I work for a big company so am able to transfer to different areas but the closest shop that has a vacancy is an hour away which is just not doable for me as it would make childcare costs far too expensive.
This isn't a career that I'm wanting to pursue so I'd be happy to leave and find a closer job in a different company but I don't want to have to pay back my CMP. Is there any way around this?

Unfortunately doesn't sound like it? Usually you only have to stay 6 months after returning to work to avoid repaying CMP - it's only 2 hours a day - childminders are much cheaper than nurseries and more flexible on hours - stick if out and then change jobs.

How long you have to stay depends on your contract, I only had to stay 3 months. I suppose you can only ask, but it isn't your employers problem if you are struggling with childcare. Speak to them, explain the situation and see what they say. You might find they come to an agreement, or that sucking up the childcare for a short period is worth it to not have to repay the CMP.

Check your work policy to see how long you have to stay at work before you don't have to repay your AML.
I think most places are 3-6 months. If you're taking AL at the end of your maternity leave then that'll take a few weeks off for you. It should be pro rated too I'd have thought so might not be as bad as you think.
If you need to resign you could also ask the company if they'd consider PILON and negotiate not to have to repay AML