When you find out you're pregnant, you’re likely to think about how you are going to break the news to friends and family, but have you thought about how you are going to tell your employer?
While it can feel daunting or like a lot of pressure to tell your employer that you’re pregnant, it doesn’t have to be. We’ll explore when you need to tell your employer you're pregnant, what they need to know, and your rights.
When to tell your employer about your pregnancy
You are legally required to tell your employer that you're pregnant, no later than 15 weeks before the baby is due. This is known as ‘notification week’. Many people like to tell their employer about their pregnancy before this date as this enables them to take time for pregnancy appointments.
Potential benefits of telling your employer as early as you feel comfortable
- After informing your employer of your pregnancy you will be protected against unfair treatment or pregnancy discrimination. This also means that sick days taken relating to pregnancy will be logged separately and cannot be used against you.
- It makes it easier for both you and your employer to get prepared for your maternity leave.
- Your employer will need to conduct a workplace risk assessment to ensure your workplace is safe for you to work from. If it isn’t safe enough, it is the employer's responsibility to remedy it. This is a clear benefit of letting your employer know about your pregnancy earlier than the last 15 weeks before your due date.
- You should be given reasonable, paid time off to attend appointments during pregnancy. It’s important to note that employers can ask for proof of appointments, where you will need to obtain a note from your doctor or a stamped MATB1 certificate (this is usually given 20 weeks before your due date).
What does my employer need to know about my pregnancy?
Two things your employer will need to know, include:
- That you wish to receive statutory maternity pay.
- The date you plan to go on maternity leave.
The earliest date you can start your maternity leave is 11 weeks before the baby is due. Your employer should get back to you in writing regarding confirmation on your maternity leave start date and your expected return date. You can also request a different start date, however you must provide your employer with at least 28 days notice for this.
Pregnant employee rights
Pregnant employees have four main employment rights, including:
- A right to paid time off for antenatal care (this includes parenting classes if they have been recommended by a doctor).
- A right to maternity leave.
- A right to maternity allowance or pay.
- A right to protection against discrimination, dismissal or unfair treatment.
FAQs
How long is maternity leave in the UK?
You are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave, which comprises of Ordinary Maternity Leave for the first 26 weeks and Additional Maternity Leave which takes places in the last 26 weeks.
You are legally required to take two weeks maternity leave after birth or four weeks if you work in a factory. After this, the remaining leave can be taken as needed, but it must be taken within 52 weeks of giving birth.
When can I go on maternity leave?
Maternity leave can start no earlier than 11 weeks before the birth date is due.
Can I attend appointments during my pregnancy throughout my working hours?
Yes, you are entitled to attend appointments, such as antenatal appointments, classes and sessions recommended by your doctor, during working hours.
Can you work during maternity leave?
Yes, you can work during your maternity leave, for up to 10 days, as long as both you and your employer agree upon it. This is known as KIT days (Keep In Touch Days). These days enable you and your employer to stay in touch with each other through meetings and training, without your maternity pay or leave ending. However, if you work for more than 10 days your maternity will end.
