Maternity Leave
Maternity leave is time off work for mothers before and after childbirth, with statutory entitlements to leave and pay set by law.
Maternity leave in the UK entitles eligible employees to up to 52 weeks off work when having a baby—26 weeks' Ordinary Maternity Leave plus 26 weeks' Additional Maternity Leave. The first two weeks after birth (four for factory workers) are compulsory.
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid for 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then £184.03 per week (2024/25) or 90% of earnings (whichever is lower) for the remaining 33 weeks. Many employers offer enhanced maternity pay above statutory levels.
Employment rights are protected during maternity leave. You accrue holiday, can't be dismissed because of pregnancy, and have the right to return to the same job (or a similar one if that's not possible after Additional Maternity Leave).
Key Points
- Up to 52 weeks' leave available
- Statutory Maternity Pay for 39 weeks
- Many employers offer enhanced maternity pay
- Employment rights protected during leave
- Holiday continues to accrue during maternity leave
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to tell my employer I'm pregnant?
You must inform your employer by the 15th week before your due date to qualify for SMP. Earlier notification is advisable for workplace safety assessments and planning.
Can I work during maternity leave?
You can work up to 10 "Keeping In Touch" (KIT) days during maternity leave without affecting your leave or SMP. These are optional for both you and your employer.