‘Tis the season to be jolly, and we’re not just talking about Christmas parties and mince pies! For many families, this time of year brings the anticipation of a very special arrival – a little bundle of joy!
And just like the shepherds and wise men brought gifts to celebrate, UK law provides some pretty fantastic presents for expectant parents in the form of maternity rights. Let’s take a look at how you can make this a truly magical Christmas for your employees:
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Remember how the Angel Gabriel brought the good news to Mary? Well, it’s the employee’s obligation to share their happy news with you, too! They’ll let you know they’re expecting and their estimated week of childbirth (EWC). It’s best if they do this in writing by 15 weeks before their EWC.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Antenatal Appointment
Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem, getting everything ready for their little one. Similarly, your employee will need time for antenatal appointments. Make sure they can attend these without worrying about their pay or workload. Think of it as helping them prepare their own “stable” for their new arrival!
Away in a Manager, Then Off on Leave for a Year!
Mary gave birth to Jesus in a humble stable, surrounded by love. In the UK, all employees are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave, no matter how long they’ve worked for you. They can start this leave up to 11 weeks before their EWC. That’s almost a whole year to bond with their new baby!
The government provides a gift of Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) for eligible employees for up to 39 weeks. And even if an employee isn’t eligible for SMP, they might be able to receive Maternity Allowance. That’s definitely something to celebrate!
Gifts of Support and Understanding!
The Wise Men arrived bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While employers aren’t expected to shower new parents with such riches, they do have responsibilities regarding maternity leave. These include:
- Communication: Stay connected with your employee during their maternity leave. A simple phone call or email to see how they’re doing can go a long way.
- Return to work: Ensuring a smooth transition back into the workplace, including offering the right to return to the same job.
- Health and safety: Consider any risks to the employee’s health and safety during pregnancy and after their return to work. Need a Maternity Risk Assessment template?
Following the Star to… the Office?
Did you know that with your agreement, employees can work up to 10 “Keeping in Touch” (KIT) days without affecting their maternity pay or time off? They can stay connected with their work while still enjoying precious time with their new arrival.
Here’s how it works:
- KIT days must be agreed upon by both you and the employee. No one can be forced to work these days.
- Just like Mary and Joseph needed time to bond with baby Jesus, the first two weeks of maternity leave are compulsory, meaning no
- KIT days can be worked during this time.
- Discuss and agree on payment for KIT days in advance.
- Even an hour of work counts as a full KIT day, allowing for maximum flexibility for new parents.
- Working KIT days won’t shorten the employee’s total maternity leave.
Silent Night, Holy… sh!t the baby’s awake again…
The birth of a child is a truly magical event, but it’s not an easy transition for many. By understanding and supporting your employees’ maternity rights, you’re not just fulfilling legal obligations, you’re spreading Christmas cheer and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and cared for.
The Wise Women Are Here to Help with Maternity Questions!
We’re here to help you navigate the wonderful world of maternity leave! Our team of HR experts can answer your questions and provide guidance on all aspects of maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
AND…
Here’s a FREE Maternity Leave and Pay Flowchart (Consider it a Christmas gift)
Like the Wise Men following the star, this flowchart will lead you through the key aspects of maternity leave. Download it now!
Wishing you and your employees a joyous festive season filled with love, laughter, and little miracles!
