Not allowed additional maternity leave?

[Hart2011]

I am about to inform my employer of my pregnancy but, I want to make sure I have my facts straight first in regards to what I am entitled to by law. I have read that you can take 52 weeks SMP. 26 weeks ordinary and 26 weeks additional. I have been with my employer for 5 years. My contract states that I am entitled to 26 weeks ordinary maternity leave by law. But it doesn't mention the additional 26 weeks. Does that mean they will only allow me 26 weeks all together?

No the law has changed since you contract, you are allowed 52 weeks leave. The new laws override your contract. You can often also add parental leave/annual leave onto that.