Extending maternity leave - is it possible?

[EwaJones]

Hello,

I'm a new mum and need information about maternity leave without talking to my employer. Unfortunately my company doesn't have an HR department so I feel lost and not sure where to get the advice.

I'm on maternity leave and it's coming to an end - the 9 months period. I wondered if it's possible to extend it to a year and if it's paid? I was a full-time student and worked part time (just a few hours per week) before having my baby so my maternity pay is very low, lower than MA, but still if I get anything I'd like to stay with my baby for 3 more months at home.

Many thanks in advance!

You are entitled to take 12 months maternity leave, the first nine months are paid at statutory maternity pay rates, the last three months of which is unpaid (unless your employer has an enhanced maternity pay offer).

However, if you've informed them you'll be taking 9 months, you are required to give 8 weeks notice to extend the maternity leave to 12 months.