Not going back to work after having my baby

[Jadeco1999]

Hi all,

Just looking for some advice please. I'm in the UK. When I went on maternity leave at 32 weeks I used all of my holidays for the year, totalling around 22 days. Our holidays go March-March and went on maternity leave in April. I originally planned on going back to work, but have since decided I want to stay home to take care of my baby.

My question is, as I used all 22 days holiday and maternity leave is typically 9 months, would I owe a certain amount of days back to the company? And if so, is this just taken out of my last smp payment or would I physically need to pay it back?

Many thanks in advance for any advice x

No. Maternity leave is separate and you accrue annual leave during maternity leave. Providing you end your maternity at the end on march you’ll have accrued all your leave. You’re also entitled to bank holidays so they’ll owe you 8 days of leave.

I’d carefully think about giving up work. why are you considering this option

You will be making yourself very vulnerable if you don't go back to work, and I imagine you will be expected to pay back some of the salary you received on mat leave.

Personally, I think you are mad. I have three adult children and I reluctantly went back every time. I am so glad I did now that pension is a big thing for me!

My advice will always be do not give up work. Decrease hours with provision to return FT should you wish
Do not give up work, it is risky,leaves you financially vulnerable and it’s not necessary

I sound hideous & i apologise in advance but i have been you.

My husband and i decided together get I would give up work to bring up our kids. One with send.

Fast forward to our divorce & I'm apparently lazy and useless and got nothing - meanwhile he has contacts,:'savings, pensions & gives me minimum.

Do NOT do this without written agreement & provisions.

Love does die & the one with no job/pension/contacts is fucked

You need to check your actual contract and workplace policies as there is only so much faith in generic advice, don’t make any decisions without looking at your specific circumstances.

You’re right.
unfortunately it’s usually women who give up work,and then disproportionately bear the consequences .Sorry you have had such an experience