Statutory Maternity Leave
How and when to tell your employer about your maternity leave.
Financial Support
Last updated: 5 September 2026
What it is about
Statutory Maternity Leave gives you time off work when you have a baby, and usually includes Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) if you are eligible through your employer.
What is involved
Statutory Maternity Leave lasts for up to 52 weeks. It is made up of:
- Ordinary Maternity Leave: The first 26 weeks.
- Additional Maternity Leave: The last 26 weeks.
Timeframes
You must tell your employer when the baby is due and when you want to start your maternity leave at least 15 weeks before your due date. We set your milestone for exactly this time.
If you later decide you want to change your return to work date, you must give your employer at least 8 weeks' notice.
What you benefit from
You get up to 52 weeks of protected time off work to care for your new baby.