Definition
A statutory entitlement allowing pregnant employees to take up to 52 weeks of leave from work, comprising 26 weeks of Ordinary Maternity Leave followed by 26 weeks of Additional Maternity Leave. Employees must take a minimum of two weeks after birth (four weeks for factory workers).
UK Context
Maternity leave is governed by the Employment Rights Act 1996 and the Maternity and Parental Leave Regulations 1999. Employees must give at least 15 weeks notice before the expected week of childbirth. All employees are entitled to maternity leave regardless of length of service.
Best Practices
- Conduct a risk assessment as soon as you are notified of the pregnancy
- Maintain regular communication during leave using agreed keeping-in-touch days
- Plan and document return-to-work arrangements well in advance of the employee's return date
Frequently Asked Questions
How much maternity pay are employees entitled to?
Statutory Maternity Pay is paid for up to 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then the lower of 187.18 pounds per week or 90% of average weekly earnings for the remaining 33 weeks. Some employers offer enhanced maternity pay.
Can maternity leave start before the due date?
Yes, maternity leave can start from 11 weeks before the expected week of childbirth. It will also be triggered automatically if the employee is off work for a pregnancy-related illness in the 4 weeks before the due date.