Maternity & Paternity Issues

Maternity Rights

There are 6 basic rights relating to maternity:

not to be dismissed on grounds of pregnancy or childbirth
a right to maternity leave for all employees
a right for a mother to return to work after extended maternity leave
a right to maternity pay
a right to alternative work or payment during suspension on grounds of maternity time-off for ante-natal care

These rights are quite extensive and compliance can be difficult and disruptive to employers. It is essential therefore that the employee complies with the strict procedures and timetables laid down in order to qualify for the maximum benefits and to avoid disqualifying themselves due to following incorrect procedures.

Paternity Leave

Two weeks paid paternity leave is now also available. Fathers receive a minimum of £100 a week, or 90% of their average weekly earnings if this is less, for two weeks, known as Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP). It can be taken from the date of birth or up to eight weeks afterwards.

New Maternity and Parental Leave and Parental and Adoption Leave Regulations have recently been introduced which further extend parental rights. Please click here to read them.

Should you require advice on an employment related matter (whether as an employer or employee) please feel free to contact our Employment Law partners, Callaghans Solicitors, via telephone or email for an initial conversation free of charge

Contact name: Murray Wells

Direct telephone: 01252 723 491

Email: mwells@callaghans.co.uk

Website: http://www.callaghans.co.uk/

CALLAGHANS SOLICITORS

FIRLEX HOUSE, 18 FIRGROVE HILL, FARNHAM SURREY GU9 8LQ