Asking on behalf of pregnant pal...

[FermezLaBouche]

Hello all,

I have no kids so desperately need the advice of those with experience on behalf of a dear mate who really deserves a bit of happiness.

My friend obtained a post last week as a LSA in a local secondary school and was over the moon. She has now, however, found out she's pregnant - five weeks. As she does not start until September, and obviously has no contract, can anyone point me in the direction of some reading with regards to her rights? Will she get maternity leave? Can they withdraw the job offer?

Sorry for sounding totally clueless - I have no experience in this kind of thing but really want to help my friend out.

Thanks in Advance

She will still have the right to some maternity leave but will not get as much maternity pay as she would do if she had already started the job when she got pg - but it's not the end of the world and no they cannot withdraw the job offer that would be sexual discrimination and would be illegal.

Website holds all the info she needs

Maternity leave is a right from day 1 but maternity pay is different and depends on variables.

Directgov website

She can take a year maternity leave exactly the same as anyone else, and all other same maternity rights, but won't be entitled to SMP or whatever enhanced scheme is available. She will probably get maternity allowance instead, which is the same flat rate as SMP without the first 6 weeks at 90% of salary.

Thank you so much everyone!
My boss printed me off a copy of the county website policy for TAs and I'm seeing her tomorrow to pass it on, along with the advice received here.

Thanks again!