Understanding Your Maternity Rights
The government of the United Kingdom has taken some significantly proactive steps when it comes to the maternity rights of mothers. As a matter of public policy, the government recognizes the importance of a mother being able to spend quality time with her baby during the early months of that child’s life. Therefore, if you are expecting a baby, it is important for you to know what your maternity rights are.
During your pregnancy, there are a variety of different laws that do protect your rights at work. These laws are designed to ensure that you have the ability to take off work to obtain appropriate medical care and attention during the course of your pregnancy and so forth.
As of 2007, a mum has the ability to take 39 weeks of work with pay following the birth of a baby. At the conclusion of this time period a mum has the right to go back to work at the same or comparable position.
Moreover, if a mother so desires, she can take additional time of 13 more weeks off for maternity leave without jeopardizing her job. However, this additional time will be without pay. If you desire to take this additional time, you must notify your employer in advance of the the expiration of the 39 weeks of leave with pay that you initially were entitled to following the birth of your baby.
Taking 39 or 52 weeks off following the birth of your baby presupposes that you worked up until the time that you gave birth. Many women are able to do so which gives them the chance to spend as much time with their babies as possible.
Some women cannot continue working until the end – or don’t want to do so. Therefore, if you so desire, you can begin your maternity leave at 11 weeks before you due date. Of course, it is also possible that you have a job that really doesn’t allow you to work effectively during the latter part of your pregnancy. In any event, you are protected.
If you are self employed, you may qualify for maternity leave which is paid directly to you by the government. You will need to make sure that you make appropriate application for these benefits in a timely manner.
By knowing your rights, you will be in the best position to be prepared for your new baby and to spend quality time with your baby after he or she joins you in the world.
Tags: maternity, maternity rights, maternity leave
