Essential points

  • Employees are entitled to up to one year’s maternity leave, regardless of service, salary level or the number of hours they work, provided they notify their employer 15 weeks before their due date that they wish to take maternity leave and when they intend to take it.
  • Employees are entitled to statutory maternity pay if they inform their employer of their pregnancy and confirm it with a MATB1 from a doctor or midwife at least 15 weeks before their due date. They may qualify for enhanced maternity leave and pay under the terms of their employment contract. 
  • Paternity, adoption and shared parental leave, and pay, is available to employees who meet length of service and income thresholds.
  • Parents on maternity, paternity or certain periods of shared parental leave (and from 6 April 2024 pregnant employees) have extended redundancy protection rights.

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Disclaimer 

​Please note: While every care has been taken in compiling this content, CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice. 

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