Will I continue receiving statutory maternity pay if I quit job?

Brar

I am in my 3rd month of my Statutory Maternity Leave. I am due to go back to work in September, although I am aware that I can stay off work until January.

The thought of going back to my job makes me panic, during my time there I lost a lot of my confidence as the company make our lives so miserable & all employees are constantly on pins. Its affecting my time with my son as i am constantly worried about going back to work.

I am aware that I would not have to pay back any stat maternity pay if I left. My question is:
Would I continue receiving Statutory Maternity Pay for the remaining months if I quit now? If so, who would it be paid by?

I fully intend on going back to work after the full 9 months maternity is up but for a new employer.

Any advice would be a great help! Thanks

ktothema

Yes, you would still be entitled to SMP and your current company should continue to pay it. However if I were you, I'd inform your company now that you wish to extend your maternity leave until 9 months, and then hand your notice in later. Remember you accrue holiday during this time so quitting now stops that. Also, if you recieved any pay over SMP there may be some contractual clause that you have to pay back if you don't return, so please check your contract.

Uncertain

I would agree.

In most circumstances it is not in an employee's best interest to resign with any more notice than they are obliged to give.