Thanks lorrwa. I don't mind paying it because I knew the policy. It's more that they are taking it out of my final salary leaving it as zero. I'm hoping they will stagger the repayment but I'm yet to hear.

It is harsh, but if its in your contract/maternity arrangements then yes they are entitled to do it. Some companies will waive it, but others (big ones with HR admin departments) won't. Worth asking them if they will waive it, or come to a compromise?

As Rionne says check that they are including any holiday, bank holiday and bonus payments that would have accrued over your maternity period too.

good luck!

Sadly I've found out it's in my contract. Hopefully they will understand my side of things...

I think they are entitled to do this. Is it made clear in you contract that this is the case? Are you owed any holiday pay as this accrues whilst you are on mat leave? Perhaps if the worse comes to the worst you could stay and then leave after a year if that is what the minimum term is in your contract. Seems very harsh.

I've just handed in my notice having only been back at work 5 months since having my boy which means I have to repay the maternity pay over statutory that I had. This is a ridiculous amount and I'm only leaving because I think it's the only way I can progress in my career, but they are wanting to take most of the amount I owe out of my final salary. Are they allowed to do this? Has anyone got any advice? If they do this then we can't afford both childcare and our mortgage which scares me a lot, especially wih it being Christmas.

Thank you... I'm only panicing mildly!!!