Not returning to work after maternity

[Feelingstressed1989]

I currently work in the NHS, my role is band 2. I am so miserable at my job and can’t stand the thought of having to carry on until maternity leave in 5 months, mainly as I feel so rubbish from the pregnancy, let alone the thought of having to leave my baby afterwards to return there. My Husband is fine with me not returning, I may decide to go part time elsewhere but this role won’t work part time and for the reasons mentioned above it’s not going to be a good fit for me. Has anyone had any experience after maternity leave specifically with the NHS. When they make you pay back the enhanced portion is it in stages or all at once?

I’m not sure about the lump sum vs instalments thing, you could probably negotiate instalments but I don’t have experience of that. However I do know that you don’t have to return to your old role to keep your occupational maternity pay, it can be a different role or even in a different trust. It just has to be within the NHS. I thought I’d mention that in case a different role would suit you better!

The other thing not to forget about is the annual leave you’ll accrue while on maternity leave. Some departments push you to take that in a block at the end of your maternity leave, but you can request to spread it, so you go back essentially part time until it runs out. I know people who’ve returned part time for the three months you have to do, and then left. That way you get to keep your maternity pay.

I don’t know if any of that is helpful, but good luck with it and wishing you a smooth rest of your pregnancy!

@PaperAirplanesFlying so helpful! Thanks 🙏