Get prediction

Keeping in Touch Days: Complete Guide

Keeping in Touch (KIT) days let you do some work during your maternity leave without bringing your leave or your maternity pay to an end. They can be a useful way to stay connected to your workplace, ease your eventual return and pick up any training or updates you have missed.

What KIT days are

Under UK rules you can work up to 10 KIT days during your maternity leave. Key points to know:

  • Using a KIT day does not end your maternity leave or your Statutory Maternity Pay
  • They are entirely optional — you do not have to use any, and your employer cannot make you
  • Equally, your employer does not have to offer them; using them must be agreed by both sides

A KIT day can be any type of work: attending a meeting or training, a handover, or a full working day. Even an hour or two counts as one whole KIT day.

How KIT days work with your pay

  • You should agree in advance what work you will do and how you will be paid for it
  • There is no statutory rate for KIT days, so pay is a matter for you and your employer to agree — many pay your normal daily rate
  • Any pay for a KIT day is usually on top of your maternity pay, though how this is handled can vary, so check with your employer

Making the most of them

  • Use them for important meetings, training or project updates you do not want to miss
  • Spread them out if you want to stay gently connected across your leave
  • Keep a note of days used, as you only have 10

If you are on Shared Parental Leave instead, a similar arrangement called SPLIT days applies, with a separate allowance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Keeping in Touch days?

KIT days are up to 10 days you can choose to work during maternity leave without ending your leave or your Statutory Maternity Pay. They let you stay connected to work, attend training or meetings, and ease back in before you formally return.

How many KIT days can I take?

You can take up to 10 KIT days during your maternity leave. They are optional for both you and your employer, and using them does not extend your leave or reduce your maternity pay.

Do I get paid for KIT days?

There is no fixed statutory rate, so pay is agreed between you and your employer — many pay your usual daily rate. Payment for a KIT day is generally in addition to your maternity pay, but it is worth confirming exactly how it will be handled before you agree to work.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Check GOV.UK or speak to your HR department for your specific situation.

Related articles: