maternity pay

[H.Wilkinson]

I am a full time teacher and I am having my first baby at the beginning of June 2005. Someone said there has been a change in maternity pay - I am going back to work in 2006. Am I going to be entitled to more that 26 weeks maternity pay? Someone mentioned they thought it had gone up to 9 months? If anyone can help I'd be very grateful, thank you!

[Hammer]

I was mentioned a few days back as one of Labour's new policies to make them look good for the next election.

 

It will probably come into force at the next budget (February I think?) but until then you will not know for sure.

 

 

[OBonio]

It was mentioned in the pre budget statement so will come into practice in March I think.  There is also a choice as to whether the father or the mother takes the 9 months.

[Hgrove]

ACAS had a very easy to read, comprehensive booklet about maternity leave when I was pregnant.  Suggest you contact them for latest position.

[OBonio]

I must add that these ideas came from the mouth of a politician.  Pinch of salt needed maybe, but hopefully not!

[Francis Asis]

Your midwife should be able to provide this information.

[secretspirit]

I don't think it comes into force until 2007 and it allows you 52 weeks of statutory maternity pay (the �102 per week you get from the government but via your employer once your company maternity pay stops). I wish it was sooner too because my first baby's due at the end of May. Maybe next time!

[one_mad_cow]

You can have 26 weeks basic maternity leave and may then take an extended 26 weeks off.  I'm due to have my first on August 11th, Unfortunately as I won't have been in my current job more than 26 weeks I am not entitled to maternity pay or extended maternity leave.  I shall be going back to work after this 26 weeks though it seems mean on the baby.  I have to provide for us to live!