SMP - need uegent advice please help

[lubella]

I have a feeling the company (one sole trader) I have been working for for 2 years may be declared bankrupt over the next couple of months due to unpaid NI - in theory I leave for maternity in November.
Although she has verbally agreed to grant smp and i have handed in matb1 form to the accountants I have no contract and nothing in writing from her and am feeling increasingly nervous and anxious about the whole thing. What on earth should I do? I think I could get it in writing before the worst happens but will this be enough - also what should I put in the statement? I have tried calling various helplines but they have been so negative and uninformative i wondered if there was anyone who knows the score on this who could offer me some decent advice?

Do you have payslips or proof of the money you've earned?

yes I have all payslips

Well that's good

have a look at this

If they go bust before you start ML or while you are off then you would be able to claim Maternity Allowance instead of SMP and it should be the same amount of money

Even if your employer gives you a contract or some written bit saying she'll give you SMP if they go under you may still get nothing
You'll still be able to get MA instead

does that count in my favour theblonde?

it means you can prove you were employed if they go bust and you need to claim the MA

I see - that is very reassuring the blonde thank you v much for your help