Are you a new parent preparing to return to work? You’re in for a rude awakening. Chances are good that your employer doesn’t have your best interests at heart. In fact, unless you know your rights, you may find yourself out of a job – or worse.
Don’t worry, though. We’re here to help. Here are five maternity and parental workplace rights you should know about.
You Have the Right to Time Off for Antenatal Appointments
If you’re pregnant, you have the right to take time off work for antenatal appointments. These appointments include anything from your first scan to your NCT classes. Your employer can’t refuse your request or try to change your working hours.
Here’s how to apply for leave for such appointments:
- You must give your employer at least 15 weeks’ notice if you need time off for multiple appointments.
- You must give your employer at least 7 days’ notice if you need time off for a single appointment.
- You must give your employer your expected date of confinement (EDC).
You Have the Right to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)
If you’re pregnant, you have the right to take up to 52 weeks (give or take, depending on the employer) of maternity leave. You’re also entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) for those weeks.
To qualify, you must:
- Be employed by your company for a week (contingent on company policy).
- Earn an average of at least £100 a week.
- Give your employer notice that you’re taking maternity leave no later than the end of the 15th week before your baby is due.
You Have the Right to Return to Work After Maternity Leave
After taking your maternity leave, you have the right to return to work in the same job with the same pay and benefits. If your job no longer exists, you have the right to a similar job with the same pay and benefits. If the employer refuses to give you the job back without giving the termination benefits, you can file a lawsuit for compensation by contacting employment law experts.
You Have the Right to Request Flexible Working Arrangements
If you’re a parent, you can request flexible working arrangements. These arrangements could include anything from working from home to changing your hours or days of work.
To request flexible working arrangements, you must:
- Be employed by your company for a week threshold (say, 26 weeks), depending on the company.
- Make your request in writing.
You Have the Right to Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP)
As an expectant father in the United Kingdom, you have the right to obtain (SPP) as part of your employment benefits. To be eligible for SPP, you must have worked with your present employer for some weeks (depending on the company policy) leading up to your child’s birth. You must also be taking at least two weeks off work following birth.
If you meet these criteria, you will be entitled to take up to two weeks off work and receive pay at a specified rate. To claim SPP, you must notify your employer of your intention to take paternity leave at least 28 days before the expected week of childbirth. Once your leave has been approved, you must provide your employer with a copy of your child’s birth certificate.
Statutory Paternity Pay is a valuable right that can help you to take time off work that you need to bond with your new baby. Do not hesitate to exercise this right if you are eligible.
Final Word
Keep these rights in mind if you’re pregnant or a new parent. Familiarise yourself with them, and don’t be afraid to assert them if necessary.