As an NHS nurse, I understand the importance of staying connected with your employer and colleagues while on maternity leave.
The National Health Service (NHS) offers Keeping in Touch (KIT) days, a flexible and supportive initiative that allows employees to maintain their professional relationships and skills while on leave.
How much will I get paid for KIT days?
KIT days are paid at your normal daily rate, and the number of days you can take varies depending on your maternity leave duration.
You can work up to 10 KIT days without affecting your maternity pay or leave duration. Any additional days worked will be deducted from your maternity leave.
What are NHS Keeping in Touch (KIT) days in England?
In England, KIT days help NHS employees stay connected with their workplace and colleagues while on maternity leave. These days can be used for training, meetings, or other work-related activities, ensuring that you remain up-to-date with the latest developments in your field.
What are NHS Keeping in Touch (KIT) days in Scotland?
Similarly, in Scotland, KIT days are offered to NHS employees to maintain their professional connections and skills. The Scottish Government has implemented the “Keeping in Touch” scheme, allowing employees to work up to 10 days during their maternity leave without impacting their pay or leave duration.
Keeping in Touch on days of maternity leave
KIT days are exclusively available for NHS employees on maternity leave. These days can be used flexibly, allowing you to balance your work and family responsibilities. You can discuss your KIT days with your employer to determine the most suitable arrangement for both parties.
SPLIT days
SPLIT (Shared Parental Leave in Touch) days extend KIT days, allowing parents to maintain professional connections while on shared parental leave. SPLIT days can be used for work-related activities, ensuring you remain connected with your workplace and colleagues.
Can I work while on maternity leave for another employer?
While on maternity leave from your NHS job, you can work for another employer, but it’s essential to check your contract and obtain permission from your NHS employer first. Additionally, you must ensure that your new employment does not affect your maternity pay or benefits from your NHS job.
NHS maternity pay
NHS maternity pay is a comprehensive package that includes Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and NHS Occupational Maternity Pay (OMP). SMP is paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings for the first six weeks, followed by a flat rate of £156.66 weekly. OMP is an additional payment made by the NHS, varying depending on your length of service.
Can I work part-time during maternity leave?
Yes, you can work part-time during maternity leave, but discussing this with your employer first is crucial. You can use KIT days to work part-time, ensuring you don’t exceed the 10-day limit. Any additional days worked will be deducted from your maternity leave.
Maternity leave working days
Maternity leave working days refer to the number of days you can work during your maternity leave without affecting your pay or leave duration. For NHS employees, this is limited to 10 KIT days. Any additional days worked will be deducted from your maternity leave.
What happens if you get pregnant on maternity leave in the NHS?
You should notify your employer immediately if you become pregnant while on maternity leave. Your maternity leave will be extended, and you will be eligible for a new maternity leave and pay period.
What happens if you don’t return to work after maternity leave in the UK?
If you decide not to return to work after maternity leave, you must notify your employer in writing. You may be required to repay any maternity pay received, depending on your contract and circumstances.
How much is SMP?
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings for the first six weeks, followed by a flat rate of £156.66 per week.
Can I get maternity leave if I just started a job in the UK?
To be eligible for maternity leave in the UK, you must have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks continuously up to the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth.
Can I take two years maternity leave in the UK?
In the UK, maternity leave can last up to 52 weeks, but taking two years of maternity leave is impossible. However, you can discuss flexible working arrangements with your employer or consider taking annual or unpaid leave to extend your time off.
What happens if I get pregnant when I start a new job?
You should notify your employer immediately if you become pregnant shortly after starting a new job. You may be eligible for maternity leave and pay, depending on your length of service and contract.
Your employer can guide your maternity policy and any relevant procedures.
In conclusion, NHS Keeping in Touch (KIT) days offer a valuable opportunity for employees to maintain their professional connections and skills while on maternity leave.
By understanding the payment structures, benefits, and regulations surrounding KIT days, NHS employees in England and Scotland can make informed decisions about their career and family responsibilities.
As an NHS nurse, I have seen firsthand the positive impact of KIT days on employees’ well-being and career development. The NHS demonstrates its commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being by supporting employees during this critical life event.
Remember, KIT days are a flexible and supportive initiative to help you stay connected with your workplace and colleagues while on maternity leave. Don’t hesitate to discuss your KIT days with your employer and maximize this valuable opportunity.