MATERNITY PAY/ LEAVE

[paddingtonbear26]

So... I just started working for NHS. Accepted the job in December not knowing I was pregnant. Due 19th August and contract didn't actually start until yesterday (12/1/21)
I don't think I will have worked there long enough to qualify for maternity pay, is that right? If I work up until when I plan to that will be me working there for 29 weeks but I read that you have to work somewhere for the 26 weeks upto the 15th week before baby is born?
I have worked full time for the last 18 years uninterupted so would I likely be able to apply for Maternity Allowance? Please help, this has really stressed me out!! THANKS!

You'll be able to apply for maternity allowance don't worry. You're also still entitled to 52 weeks of leave.

To qualify for SMP you need to have completed a weeks employment before you become pregnant.

You should qualify for maternity allowance.

You will be given maternity leave.

Yes you will get maternity allowance and full maternity leave. The maternity allowance isn't very much less than SMP, the main difference is that it is paid like a government benefit rather than through PAYE.

I started with the NHS when TTC. Assuming you earned enough in previous employments, you'll be entitled to maternity allowance which is 39 weeks at SMP levels (£151.20, or 90% of your usual weekly pay if this is lower). You're able to take the rest but this will be unpaid.

HR can split the pay over the whole time off if you'd prefer this. I'm getting SMP but will get it at the normal time as I'd rather have the cash in hand and have unpaid months instead.