SMP - 'Continuous Service'

[MinnieMouse200]

Hoping someone can help.

In order to qualify for SMP I need to have 26 weeks of continuous service before the 15th week before the baby is due.

Does anyone know if this continuous service includes time on maternity leave? Asking because I'm about to go back to work from mat leave pregnant again! Not ideal but I'm getting on a bit so have had to crack on 😂

Helpful if there is any formal guidance on government websites etc. I've had a look and haven't been able to find anything

Yes, you are still employed while on maternity leave. How pregnant will you be when you return to work? Statutory Maternity pay is determined by wages in weeks 17-25 of pregnancy so will you have been getting any money at that point?

PP is correct, it is continuous service when on maternity leave but depending on how far along you currently are you might not qualify due to the earnings requirement if you’re on the unpaid part of mat leave during the qualifying weeks x

Thank you so much for these responses, so helpful!

I will only be approx 8 weeks pregnant so this should hopefully mean I'm OK. I feel bad on my employer but equally it's a big company and I'm a good and loyal worker and have been there many years.

Although having children is part of life! 😂

Thanks again. Really appreciate it.