Can I get another job while on maternity leave?

[Stardust127]

Hi all

my maternity leave ends the start of May. However, my last maternity payslip will be the end of this month. I’m not going back to my job as I hated it; my plan is to do some agency work instead, preferably starting next month as I will need the income. Do I have to hand in notice at my job before doing any other work?

im assuming it won’t affect me financially regardless, after MP has ended at the end of this month (as in, I’ve heard it stops once you start working again)

thank you

Bump :)

I think you need to return to work for 3 months or you need to repay your Mat leave pay to your employer.

im sure someone more sensible will come along in a bit just to correct me.
if you don’t get many more replies, try posting in chat

If you were paid enhanced you will need to return for a stipulated amount of time, check your contract otherwise you'llbe required to pay the difference. If you were paid smp you won't have to repay anything.

I'm not sure on the whole getting a new job and working before leaving the previous job. Hopefully someone more clued up will be along soon.

I think it all depends on your contract with your employer. I just found a new job and left during my maternity leave (was only getting statutory by that time); but they paid the minimum and there was no requirement to pay it back if I left.

If you got enhanced then you probably need to return so check your contract.

if not then you still need to give notice but you can do that while on maternity leave

Absolutely untrue unless you were paid at an enhanced rate AND your contract stipulates repayment

Thank you all for your replies. I should have stated, I’m just on statutory maternity pay, my contract states that is my entitlement. @ToKittyornottoKitty i think I’ll just hand notice in, it does seem like the most logical option. @Fleetheart this is good to know, thank you! :)

Right ok. 🤷 just tried to help OP out due to lack of replies.

im sure someone more sensible will come along in a bit just to correct me.
Seems I was proved right here.

You should talk to them that you aren't interested to continue your current job. And then write a resign letter and leave that place. All the best!