Redundancy and Maternity

[RunningGirl]

hi
Wondering if anyone can help me with my rights here. I've worked at the same place for 10 years, 2 years since having DD working 3 days a week. Recently in a reshuffle my job was totally changed- basically a demotion although they pay me the same (was managing 10 ppl, now managing nobody). They told me I could apply for redundancy if I wanted but couldn't go until end March when I will finish some projects I'm working on. I then found out I was pregnant, due middle of May and told them about my pregnancy and then said I'd like to apply for the voluntary redundancy. I've asked to leave end March as suggested which will be 6 weeks before EDD. I've asked them to pay me maternity as well as redundancy and am waiting for HR to get back to me.
I believe that you can start mat leave from 11 weeks before EDD so does this mean they will have an obligation to pay me the redundancy as well? I'd just like to know legally where I stand before I hear back from HR. Many thanks.

Yes,they'll have to pay you statutory maternity pay as well, because you are leaving so close to your due date (I think it's if employment terminates any time in the last 11 weeks before you are due). They won't necessarily have to pay any enhanced company maternity pay - that will depend on company policy and is sometimes dependent upon you returning at the end of leave, which you won't be.

Re the redundancy pay, they will have to treat you the same way as everyone else.

Thank you so much for your helpful answer. It's what I thought (hoped) and I feel happier going into the meeting with HR (if they ever get back to me!) knowing what my rights are, rather than just letting them call all the shots! Much appreciated.

I have looked into this as I know I ambeing made redundant technically during my mat leave however legally a compnay cannot make you redundant during your mat leave. They need to wait until you are due back from mat leave.