New job while on mat leave

[Squashedpotato]

I am currently on mat leave and will be until the end of October. A job has come up that I really want to apply for.

1. Can i apply for the job and say that i cant start until the end of October? Will I be laughed out of the room?
2. If by some miracle i wasnt laughed out the room and offered the role, I have a 3 month notice period at my current employer. I am currently being paid additional maternity pay and this wont stop until the end of August. There is nothing in my contract that mentions i would need to pay back the additional maternity pay however, would they stop paying it if i was in my notice period?

I am not sure if i am better just knocking the idea on the head and hoping the job comea up again this time next year.

Just apply for the job and if they ask when you could start, tell them you have a 3 month notice period. If they want someone who can start sooner, tell them you will try and negotiate with your employer.

You will have to give your employer 3 months notice as per your contract, although they are likely to agree to ending it sooner if you want to try asking them.

Check the terms and conditions of your employer's enhanced (contractual) maternity pay very carefully. If necessary ask HR.

If you really want the job though you should apply and then worry about all this if you get it!

https://maternityaction.org.uk/advice/resigning-from-your-job-during-pregnancy-and-maternity-leave/

PS Personally I do think it's worth ending maternity leave early for a job you really want... I went back to work when DC1 was 8.5 months old, admittedly only part time, but it was fine. How old is your baby, when were they born?

@AnotherEmma baby is only 2 months old. I was planning to take just over 8 months off rather than the whole year but id cut it down if i got the job and it was going to be a deal braker. The only available childcare space in our area opens in Sept so we have booked that place. I could potentially get family to help out and start the new job in August when baby is 6 months old. I am also keen to work a 4 day week with the hours of a 9 day fortnight.

I think its going to be a bridge too far but l apply for the job, nothing to lose. Thanks for the vote of confidence.