Pregnancy and Work
Pregnancy and Work
Pregnant at Work?
If you are wondering what your rights are if you become pregnant and the possible implications of your pregnancy for your work, you should look at new guidance provided by BERR.
To speak to us, call 020 8686 5000.
Mark Jones a partner in our Employment Law team says:-
New regulations came into force last October and now BERR has produced some useful guidance to employers who have a pregnant worker, or a worker who has recently given birth.
The BERR guide to maternity rights considers the Maternity and Parental Leave Amendment Regulations which apply to all employees whose expected week of childbirth began on or after the 5th October 2008.
Amongst other changes, the new regulations removed the distinction between ordinary and additional maternity leave. Women employees continue to be entitled to 6 weeks leave on 90% pay (or £123.06 per week if lower), 33 weeks leave at £123.06 a week (or 90% of pay if lower) and the balance of their 52 weeks maximum leave unpaid.
There are also new rules which stop employees returning to work any quicker than 2 weeks after they give birth. This is extended to four weeks for factory workers.
If you believe you have been discriminated against at work or have not been given your full entitlement in terms of maternity or paternity rights we can advise you.
Call Mark Jones on 020 8686 5000.
Notes
1. The new guide is available online at :
http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file51453.pdf
2. The Government's web site for parents wanting to know their rights is at http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Moneyandworkentitlements/WorkAndFamilies/index.htm
Submitted by Mark Jones on Thursday 16th July 2009