I also work for the nhs and heard that you don't need to have returned for a specific amount of time to go on mat leave again
As above said you'd be entitled to maternity leave but not sure about occupational pay, as your qualifying period would be calculated when you are still on mat leave. Think a call to HR would be best, no harm in asking.
Following as I am in the exact same position.
I don't think there is a "set" time you have to return before going off again. I returned from my first mat leave, pregnant with my second. I went back to work for roughly 6 months I think before going off on mat leave again. We have a 20 month gap between babies.xx
I'm guessing you just mean occupational maternity pay which we get in addition to statutory maternity pay during our leave? Yes, you've remained employed so you remain eligible as maternity leave doesn't count as an employment gap.xx
I asked my HR the same question and you don't need to go back from maternity leave for a set time to qualify for second occupational maternity pay. Being on maternity leave means you're still employed / on payroll / accruing annual leave etc. Maternity pay is calculated between 15-25 weeks pregnant. be mindful of that if you get pregnant whilst on the statutory or not being paid part of mat leave
Thank you everyone that’s really useful and has put my mind at rest!
3 months back to "pay off" your occupational pay from your previous maternity leave, I only know this as I know someone who didn't want to work the 3 months and had to pay it back. Not sure about how long you have to be in work before the next one though.