Those wondering what their rights are if they become pregnant at work should take note of new government guidance.

Jim Lett, a partner at Kidd Rapinet says:

"New regulations came into force last October and BERR (now the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills) has produced some useful guidance to employers who have a pregnant worker or a worker who has recently given birth. The BERR guide to maternity rights considers the Maternity and Parental Leave amendment Regulations which have applied to all employees whose expected week of childbirth began on or after 5 October 2008. Those regulations removed the distinction between ordinary and additional maternity leave amongst other changes. Women employees continue to be entitled to 6 weeks on 90% pay, 33 weeks at £123.06 a week (or 90% of pay if lower) and the balance of their 52 weeks maximum leave unpaid. Some employers choose to be more generous. There is also legislation which prevents employees returning to work earlier than 2 weeks after they give birth (and four weeks for factory workers)."

We can advise you if you believe you have been discriminated against at work or have not been given your full entitlement in terms of maternity or paternity rights. Call Jim Lett on 01628 621301.