Understand your rights to maternity pay, paternity leave, shared parental leave, parental leave and protection from discrimination during pregnancy. Free instant guidance verified against GOV.UK and ACAS.
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid for 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then £187.18 per week (2025/26 rate) for weeks 7–39. You need 26 weeks' continuous service by the qualifying week and average earnings of at least £125 per week to qualify.
You are entitled to 52 weeks' maternity leave (26 ordinary + 26 additional) regardless of how long you have worked for your employer. You cannot be dismissed or selected for redundancy because of your pregnancy — this is automatic unfair dismissal with no qualifying period.
Key rights covered: SMP eligibility, keeping in touch days, return to work rights, redundancy during maternity, shared parental leave, paternity leave and adoption leave. Verified against GOV.UK and ACAS.
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While our guidance covers the vast majority of common situations, complex or high-stakes cases may benefit from professional advice. For employment issues contact ACAS (free) or the Citizens Advice helpline on 0800 144 8848. For housing, Shelter can help on 0808 800 4444.
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