Baby Bonus in work contract?

[windchimes23]

My work contract states that I get a cash 'baby bonus' for having a child. I was not told this at the time but it's there written in the contract.

I've worked there for 9 years, my children are now 2 and 3.

I have just become aware of this bonus and asked for it to be paid. HR have said no, it's descretionary and we're not going to pay it as you didn't inform us of the birth of your children.

I have email evidence to support the fact that I told both my line manager and HR within a week of each birth. And obviously I was on maternity leave!

Do they have to pay me now, there doesn't appear to be any time length clause in paying.

It's a decent sum and I'd be prepared to argue for it. Is it worth persuing?

[ItsMyFuckingWedding]

I am in no way qualified to answer this but if they don't pay you are they not discriminating?

[NotCitrus]

If it's in the contract, it's not discretionary, surely - can you escalate to more senior HR person and ask how to claim this as despite informing management of the births of your children you have never been paid it?

Sounds like a dodgy thing to have in a contract in my non-lawyer opinion, but may as well argue for it!

[LotusLight]

Can you type exactly what the wording in the contract says here so we lawyers can decide if it is "discretionary" or not? Just the clause not names of people.

[windchimes23]

I'll update tomorrow from work, but basically it's included in the maternity pay section of my contract.

Thanks, I'm thinking I'm going to chase this one.

They've also told me I owe them £1000 in back pay for holiday (which I've not taken) but couldn't explain why and then said I should pay it back from my contractual car allowance or from my December salary.

I'm feeling like I may seek legal advice ASAP as I really don't give a hoot about working for these people anymore.

Shan't name and shame but top ten banking global brand. So not a small family firm I'm trying to squeeze the pips out of for perspective.