Maternity leave can be a wonderful time to bond with your new baby and adjust to life as a new mother. However, it can also be a challenging time, both financially and emotionally. Many mothers may want or need to continue working during this time to supplement their income or maintain their professional skills. Here are some tips for mums who are considering working while on maternity leave.
Understand your rights and benefits
Before making any decisions about working while on maternity leave, it’s important to understand your rights and benefits. According to the UK government’s website, new mothers are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave, made up of 26 weeks of ordinary maternity leave and 26 weeks of additional maternity leave. Mothers are entitled to statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance during this time. It’s also important to note that there is no legal protection against dismissal or redundancy during maternity leave, unless it is related to the pregnancy or maternity itself.
Consider flexible working options
Many employers offer flexible working options, such as part-time work, job sharing, or working from home. These options can be a great way to continue working while also being able to take care of your baby. If you’re interested in flexible working options, it’s important to speak to your employer and discuss what options are available to you.
Look for work that can be done from home
With the rise of the internet and technology, many jobs can now be done from home. Some popular options include freelance writing, graphic design, web development, and virtual assistance. These jobs can be a great way to continue working while also being able to take care of your baby.
Consider starting your own business
Starting your own business can be a great option if you’re looking for more control over your working hours and income. Many mothers are successfully running their own businesses from home, such as online shops, tutoring services, or consulting businesses. It’s important to research and plan carefully before starting your own business, but it can be a great way to continue working while also being able to take care of your baby.
Take care of yourself
It’s important to remember that maternity leave is a time for you to take care of yourself and your baby. It’s okay to take a break from work if you need it. It’s also important to be realistic about how much time and energy you have to devote to working while on maternity leave.
In conclusion, working while on maternity leave can be a great way to supplement your income and maintain your professional skills. However, it’s important to understand your rights and benefits, consider flexible working options, look for work that can be done from home, consider starting your own business, and most importantly, take care of yourself. As always, it’s always a good idea to consult with a legal advisor to understand the laws and regulations in detail.
