What are ‘Keeping in Touch Days’?
Answer
Staff may, by agreement with their Head of Department or immediate line manager, undertake up to 10 days work, referred to as ‘Keeping in Touch Days (KIT Days)’, during their maternity leave. Such days may be undertaken at any stage during the maternity leave period except in the first two weeks after the baby is born. The type of work undertaken is a matter for agreement between staff and the Head of Department or immediate line manager. The days may be used for any activity which would ordinarily be classed as work under the member of staff’s contract, and could be particularly useful in enabling attendance at a conference, training activity, away day, Departmental meeting etc. KIT Days are optional and can only take place by agreement between both parties. KIT Days do not extend the statutory or ordinary maternity pay periods in any way. For instance, if a KIT Day occurs during a period of full pay, part pay, SMP or unpaid leave no additional payment will be made. Staff will be given time off in lieu (in the form of additional annual leave) for any KIT Days worked.