Maternity Leave (SMP)

The Work and Families Act 2006 came into force in April 2007. It contains a number of improvements to the pay period for statutory maternity pay increasing it from 6-9 months paid leave. The improvements are intended as an interim measure as the Government intends to increase the pay period from 9-12 months (39-52) weeks.

There is a new right introduced to keep in touch during maternity leave Women are entitled to go in to work and be paid for up to 10 “keeping in touch days’ without losing their SMP for that week. The Law has also made it clear that an employer has a right to have reasonable contact with employees who are on leave (for example to discuss return to work dates)

If you need help understanding the complexities of Maternity leave and pay and want to keep up to date with forthcoming changes in entitlements contact us on:01509 221600
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