Hi Everyone!
I hope everyone is well and having a lovely Saturday!
I am really confused and getting stressed out about the NHS return to work policy following maternity.
My employer begged me to start on the bank and then took a long term to process my perm role but agreed to back date my start date.
A few months after starting my son required heart surgery and I was made to work from home. I was very conscious of my absence and I worked ridiculous hours to ensure it did not impact my team. Even having meetings with my manager outside my normal working hours.
On my return to work I was informed that they would be extending my probation period due to my absence.
A few months later, to my surprise, I found out I was pregnant. When I informed my employer, they suddenly retracted the start date being backdated. This then meant I was not entitled to maternity pay.
During my pregnancy I had complications and went sick. I had the normal sickness review meetings with my manager and HR. In both the meeting and in writing they stated I would be paid full sick pay. However, to my shock, I received a letter once on maternity leave that I had been paid incorrectly and I was to pay it back.
Not only had the agreed to back date my contract, then retracted it, they paid me as agreed in writing and then asked for it back. All whilst I was not receiving maternity pay.
I've worked for the NHS for almost 20years with a short break when I sadly lost my son at 9months old.
I have been mortified at the treatment of my current employer. I do not want to go back but what are the rules???
• I am on 3months notice period but on probation??
• Do I have to go back to work and work the 3months notice??
• Do I get paid all my accrued leave??
• What happens to my son's place at the staff day nursery? Will he be able to continue to attend during the notice period or will it cease??
Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
One very confused mum!