Maternity Leave Planning: Complete Guide
Maternity leave in the UK gives you up to 52 weeks away from work, but the rules around when to start it, how it's paid, and what to tell your employer can feel confusing when you're also trying to get through morning sickness and midwife appointments. A little planning early on makes the whole process far less stressful later.
Understanding your leave entitlement
UK maternity leave is more generous in length than pay, so it helps to understand the structure before you plan finances or cover.
- Statutory Maternity Leave is up to 52 weeks total, split into 26 weeks of Ordinary Maternity Leave and 26 weeks of Additional Maternity Leave.
- You're entitled to this leave regardless of how long you've worked for your employer or how many hours you do, as long as you're an employee.
- You must take at least two weeks off after the birth (four weeks if you work in a factory) — this part is compulsory, not optional.
- Your job (or a suitable alternative role) is protected throughout, and your employer must keep your other terms and conditions, aside from wages, largely unchanged.
When and how to tell your employer
Employers need proper notice to arrange cover, so timing your announcement well works in everyone's favour.
- You must tell your employer you're pregnant, your due date, and when you want to start leave by the end of the 15th week before your due date — earlier if you can, especially if you'll need adjustments.
- Your employer can ask for this in writing and may want to see your MAT B1 certificate, which your midwife or GP gives you from around 20 weeks.
- You can change your start date later, but you generally need to give at least 28 days' notice of the new date.
- Once you've given notice, ask your employer to confirm your leave and pay details in writing so there's a clear record for both sides.
Planning the practical side
Beyond the paperwork, a smoother handover tends to make returning to work easier too.
- Start a handover document early, covering ongoing projects, key contacts, and where things stand — future you (and your cover) will be grateful.
- Ask your employer about Keeping in Touch (KIT) days, which let you work up to 10 days during leave without losing maternity pay, useful for staying in the loop or easing back in.
- Think about your return date and whether you want to explore flexible working — you can request this once you've been employed long enough, and many employers are open to discussing it before you go on leave.
- If finances are tight, check your Statutory Maternity Pay entitlement and whether you need to budget around the lower rate that kicks in after the first six weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to start maternity leave?
You can start any time from 11 weeks before your due date, and most people choose somewhere between two and four weeks before, to rest and prepare. There's no single "right" time — it depends on how you're feeling, your job, and whether you'd rather have more time before or after the birth.
What do I need to give my employer to start maternity leave?
You need to tell them you're pregnant, your due date, and your intended start date by the 15th week before your due date, and provide your MAT B1 certificate (available from your midwife or GP around 20 weeks) as proof of your due date. Ask your employer to confirm the details back to you in writing.
Can I change my maternity leave start date once I've told my employer?
Yes, you can change it as long as you give at least 28 days' notice of the new date, unless the baby arrives early or unless you and your employer agree to shorter notice. It's worth checking your employer's specific policy, as some have additional internal processes for changes.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
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