Maternity and paternity rights are super important to make sure employees are treated fairly when they’re getting ready to welcome a new family member. In London, just like in the rest of the UK, there are laws to support expectant moms and dads.
This blog will break down all you need to know about maternity and paternity rights in London, so both employers and employees can get a clear picture of what’s what.
Maternity Rights in London
- Statutory Maternity Leave:
London-based employees get statutory maternity leave for about 52 weeks. For the first 26 weeks, they can get statutory maternity pay, and the next 26 weeks are additional maternity leave. - Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP):
Eligible employees in London can get SMP for up to 39 weeks. Typically, they receive 90% of their average weekly earnings for the first six weeks, followed by a flat rate (or 90% of average weekly earnings, if lower) for the remaining 33 weeks. - Notification Requirements:
Employees are required to inform their employer of their pregnancy, the expected week of childbirth, and the intended start date of their maternity leave at least 15 weeks before the due date. Employment solicitors London can assist with these notifications and ensure proper procedures are followed. - Returning to Work:
Employees should be able to come back to their job after maternity leave. If that’s not possible, they should get a similar position with the same terms.
Paternity Rights in London:
- Statutory Paternity Leave:
Fathers, or the partner of the mother, are entitled to take up to two weeks of statutory paternity leave. This leave can be taken within 56 days of the baby’s birth. - Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP):
Eligible employees in London can receive SPP during their paternity leave. The pay is usually the lesser of 90% of their average weekly earnings or the statutory paternity pay rate. - Notifying the Employer:
Similar to maternity leave, employees should give their employer a heads-up at least 15 weeks before the expected week of childbirth if they plan to take paternity leave. - Flexible Paternity Leave:
Some employees may be eligible for shared parental leave, allowing parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of pay between them.
Legal Protections for London Employees
- Protection Against Discrimination:
Employers in London can’t discriminate against employees because they’re pregnant, on maternity leave, or are new parents. Treating them unfairly for these reasons breaks the law. - Health and Safety Protections:
Employers must ensure a safe working environment for pregnant employees, providing necessary adjustments and accommodations to protect their health and well-being networthhaven.
Knowing about maternity and paternity rights is key for employers and employees in London. By understanding these legal rules, employers can make workplaces more supportive, taking care of employees and following the law. Similarly, employees can tackle life changes with confidence, trusting in the strong legal system in London that protects their rights.
