New job at 30weeks+ pregnant, SMP, Maternity start dates ?

[Newmom04]

Hi,

I have landed a new job and the start date is in March... due date is in mid April.
I am qualified for SMP and Enhanced pay with my current employer.

My confusion is ....

1. If I change jobs will I still get SMP from old employer during my mat leave after child birth? I am aware I can change jobs and get SMP before child birth... just not sure about post birth ? Does going on mat leave qualifies as working ?
2. When to start mat leave.. I initially thought to go on leave 11 weeks before EWC with old employer and then resign ( notice of 4 weeks).. but have since found out I will need to pay back the Enhanced pay... ( 10% for first 6 weeks, and if joining delayed then 1-2 more weeks pay ) ..

I'm very overworked.. there's just too much work and I hoped to take some time off before starting new job so can setup nursery etc..
I don't have accured leaves for next year ( they expire in Dec end )

1- is incorrect. If you start working for a new employer during your SMP period then your SMP stops. If you start leave your current workplace and start your new one the month before birth then you will not be entitled to SMP.

2- Not sure what you mean. If you leave your current job to “start mat leave” and then start with a new employer then your SMP stops being paid.

Ahh.. depends before and after childbirth right. ? See below :

3.12 Working in your Maternity Pay Period

If you are getting SMP from one employer and, before your baby is born, you do some work for another employer, your SMP is not affected.
Your SMP will stop if after the baby is born, but before the end of the Maternity Pay Period, you work for an employer who did not employ you in the qualifying wee