Positive pregnancy test just after starting new job -

[Hann376]

I’ve just found out I’m pregnant after being at a new job a week! We are happy overall but the timing isn’t great.

I’m worried about what I’m entitled to and of course how it’s gonna look and affect my career.

I understand I won’t even be entitled to statutory maternity pay but should be able to get maternity allowance as I have been full time employed (was with my previous employer 2 years with a one week gap before starting this job).

Am I legally entitled to the time off for mat leave if I’m not entitled to statutory pay? Does it make a difference that I have a 6 month probation (I’ll only be half way through this when I can even announce anything)? Is there a risk I wouldn’t pass my probation?

thanks

Can you look on the intranet or similar for the new company mat leave policy? Everywhere is different

Maternity leave and pay are separate. It's a statutory right not something your employer can choose to give or withhold. You'll be entitled to the leave regardless of the pay position.

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/work/maternity-and-parental-rights/check-your-maternity-and-parental-rights/maternity-leave-and-pay/maternity-leave-what-youre-entitled-to-and-how-to-get-it/

Legally and morally you shouldn’t have an issue with probation but depends on your employer. It would be very easy for them to
fail your probation and get away with it sadly.

I’m in HE and we wouldn’t, but it happens a lot.

You are stuck between a rock and a hard place sadly- to get time off for appointments you need to tell them and have risk assessments. But if you conceal it as long as possible instead you will make it harder for them to get rid of you when they finally know - but they may not be happy.

I’ve had it happen to me as a manager, I have muttered to myself for 2 mins (as it’s a bit irritating and inconvenient) then got on with it and been genuinely 100% supportive. But I know that it isn’t like that everywhere.

Good luck!

Legally entitled to statutory mat leave from Day 1. Plus anti natal appointments and risk assessments.

As you are aware you don’t qualify for SMP but should get MA. Talk to your HR but nearer the time I think they will issue an SMP1 confirming they will not pay SMP which enables you to claim MA.

Your probation should be complete (just) before you start mat leave so there should be no issue.