Maternity pay/ SMP entitlement

[Coopk]

Hi, I’m pregnant due date on the 28th November. My work place terms and conditions dated 2019 state I am entitled to when worked over 52weeks 90% 6 weeks salary, 20 weeks 50% then 13 weeks SMP. I began work on 6th September 2021.

I have today received a letter with my entitlement on and HR have stated they backdate 15weeks from the birth date meaning I fall short of the 52week period by 3 weeks. I thought this was only for the SMP entitlement (at 26weeks which I’m way past). This was not outlined on any recent terms and conditions I have been sent but it on an online portal dated 2015 (older than the 2019 t&c I have planned my pregnancy around). Can anyone offer any advice 🙏🏼

Honestly, if I was aware I would have waiting because I cannot afford to be in the lower allowance. 😓

Sorry OP no advice but I'm in a similar situation and am worrying about how we're going to afford it already. I've just started a new job with really generous maternity pay (26 weeks full pay then 13 weeks SMP) - the plan was to not start trying til next year when I'd be eligible. I'd have needed 52 weeks employment before I was 25 weeks pregnant (the "qualifying week") so similar to yours I think? It definitely clearly states that though in our maternity leave policy so I'd double check to be sure.

I've only just realised I'm not even eligible for SMP as I won't have 26 weeks continuous employment before the qualifying week so I'm stressing slightly about managing in Maternity Allowance.

Hopefully someone with more knowledge will be able to help.