Maternity & Paternity Leave
Everything about maternity pay, paternity pay, shared parental leave and how to plan your time off.
Statutory Maternity Pay
If you're employed and meet eligibility requirements, you can receive Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) for up to 39 weeks. You're also entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave in total.
Current SMP Rates
- First 6 weeks90% of average weekly earnings
- Next 33 weeks£184.03/week or 90% (lower)
- Final 13 weeksUnpaid
Statutory Paternity Pay
Fathers and partners can take up to 2 weeks of paternity leave and receive Statutory Paternity Pay if eligible.
Current Paternity Pay
- Duration1 or 2 weeks
- Weekly rate£184.03 or 90% of earnings
Shared Parental Leave
Parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay between them. This gives more flexibility in how you divide childcare.
Plan ahead
Shared parental leave requires notice to your employer at least 8 weeks before you want it to start. Plan your arrangement early.
Tips for Maximising Your Leave
Check your contract
Many employers offer enhanced maternity and paternity pay above the statutory minimum. Check your employment contract or HR policy.
Childcare vouchers
If you're returning to work, look into Tax-Free Childcare which gives you 20% off childcare costs up to £2,000 per year per child.
Annual leave
You continue to accrue annual leave during maternity leave. Consider adding holiday to extend your time off or for a gradual return.
Time Off for Sick Children
Parents have the right to take time off for dependants in emergencies, including when a child is ill. However, this is usually unpaid.
Unpaid Parental Leave
- Total entitlement18 weeks per child
- Maximum per year4 weeks per child
- Available until child is18 years old