When you take time off to have a baby you might be eligible for:

• Statutory Maternity Leave (external link) 

• Statutory Maternity Pay (external link) 

• paid time off for antenatal care (external link) 

• extra help from the government (external link) 

There are rules on when and how to claim your paid leave (external link) and if you want to change your dates (external link).

• You can work out your maternity pay and leave online (external link) 

You may also be eligible to get Shared Parental Leave and Pay (external link). 

Employment rights when on leave

Your employment rights (external link) are protected while on Statutory Maternity Leave. This includes your right to:

• pay rises 

• build up (accrue) holiday 

• return to work