Giving notice of when you want maternity leave to start?

[MakeAWhish]

Hi all, having a panic. I am 28 weeks pregnant. My employers are fully aware of my pregnancy and have been from very early on. OH are also aware. However, I have not officially asked for SMP and when I want mat leave to start - I've been waiting for a Matb1 form which I am getting in a few days at my 28 week appointment. My employer hasn't asked me when I want mat leave/SMP to start. Is it too late as it's after the 15th week before the baby is due?

You need to inform them of the pregnancy 15 weeks before due date. But with maternity leave you normally just give 4 weeks notice.

Thanks so much for your reply. So, I've informed them, but not in writing - haven't filled any forms in. Is this ok?

It is best if you write a letter stating when you would like maternity leave to start not less than 4 weeks prior to the start date. Also I'd consider if you would like to use any holiday prior to maternity leave starting.