new job and maternity leave

[pippel]

I have seen a job advertised and they are sending me an application form, they seem quiet interested and asked me to send it quickly because they want to make a decision soonish.

This job would be in addition to my current job rather than instead of, its only 5 hours a week on a Saturday so in no way affects my current job. The only reason Im interested is to expand my experience, Im a nursery nurse so all my experience is working with children aged 0-5 and this job is working with young people aged 10-16 with sn.

Im currently on maternity leave until the beginning of January, I have to return to work for 3 months or pay back my unusually generous maternity package (Ive just gone down to smp which is practically unheard of in my line of work).

Can I do this or does it affect my maternity pay?

It will affect your SMP yes. If you start work either with an existing employer or a new employer you will no longer be entitled to SMP, so that will stop.

In terms of your extra maternity pay, your current employer can set whatever terms and conditions they like (such as returning to work for a period of time), so it's possible they have a condition whereby if you work for someone else you will need to pay it back. Check your maternity policy/other correspondence you've had about your mat leave to be sure.

I also suggest you check your contract and/or any other staff handbook or policy about taking on other jobs while employed by your existing employer. You may well need permission to do so.

I think then I will fill out the form and see what happens, if Im offered the job and they cant wait then I will just have to turn it down.

I didnt think about needing permission for another job, I might give hr a ring about that.

Thanks