I’ve decided not to return to work. We are in England so get funding from 9 months. But have decided not to claim it. I work in childcare so I would be looking after other people’s children while paying for someone to look after mine. We are fortunate that my husband earns a good wage and will be able to support us. I feel lucky to be able to stay home with our little boy but totally get how you feel about when people ask if you’re going back to work. I’ll return to work when he goes to school.
This makes me feel better thanks ladies! Xx
I’m back at work now but if circumstances were different I might not have (we have family help with childcare) raising a child is very hard work and I actually find work relaxing in comparison! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise x
I was due back in work in March, I handed my notice in February. I couldn’t face going back and leaving him. I was working 12hrs as a supervisor in a care home. It was hard enough when pregnant but as a woman with PCOS, he may be my only child so I want to absorb everything. I live in Wales too but the government don’t actually expect us to go back to work until the child is free, but even then, most nursery’s aren’t open before 8am and I am in work at 7.30am, even then, I’d have to pay extra if I wanted him in earlier. Plus, I wouldn’t want him out the house at 9months old at 7am 😂 and dad works nights so doesn’t get home til 9am so nursery is a no with them types of jobs. I am still looking for a new job that works around me, dad & baby but at the moment I’m enjoying my time with him 🩵
Just a quick side angle re pensions… If you did go back to work, you’d also be working for your state pension, everybody forgets that. If you don’t go back, remember to register for child tax credits to protect your pension, if that’s a thing in Wales like it is in England. If not, you’ll have gaps and a reduced pension. Your partner can contribute to a private pension for you too. Remember to protect your pension too! 😘
I did this after my first son and will continue to sah until my youngest is in school at least! Almost identical situation where if I'm going to have zero money then I'd rather look after my own babies and not work than the opposite! (totally understand those who work because they need to though!) it is so hard having to listen to everyones opinions on it though! Apparently I'm both a great mum for not working and a terrible one for not working. I often feel like I'm the only mum who doesn't work local to me so it gets quite lonely but it's almost like I'm not allowed to complain about anything because I'm 'lucky' to be at home everyday. 🤷🏼♀️ It's a struggle! X