More matternity leave advice needed.

[mummyhill]

Ok back story here. I have worked 15 hrs/week for the same company for 7 years. I am currently pregnant and due to start Maternity leave on 1st September.

I have been having problems with SPD and have been signed off for 2 weeks. Will be due back in on Friday night next week.

Work have just phoned to "see how I am" and are concerned as I am signed off till Thursday. So have had 2 weeks off. I was asked (Heavy hints they would like it)if I decided to bring my maternity leave forward! I think I upset her a bit when I told her that the GP had only signed me off for 2 weeks till I could get in and see the physio and that I would be taking her advice as to whether or not I come back before I have the baby. So can I take sick or holiday time before taking my maternity leave or can they make me bring my maternity leave forward?

AFAIK they can't make you leave until you are 36 weeks pregnant (and they can start it then if you are on sick leave then iyswim)

I left work at 26 weeks because I was signed off untill the begining of my maternity leave. They cant make you start your leave untill 36 weeks.

Thanks I did think that was the case but wanted to make sure I was right before I call them back. I won't be calling them till Tuesday after I have seen the physio and taken advice from her and the gp though.