All pregnant women have certain statutory rights, including paid time off work for antenatal care, the right to take action for unfair dismissal if dismissed because they are pregnant, up to 26 weeks paid maternity leave and the option to take a further 26 weeks of additional maternity leave.
Maternity Allowance pays a standard weekly rate of £124.88 or 90 per cent of your average gross weekly earnings (before tax), whichever is the smaller.
Maternity allowance can vary, depending on how long you have worked for an employer so seek further information from the DirectGov pages and check with your employer.
Paternity
A relatively recent development has been the introduction of Paternity Leave and pay. A qualifying employee can take up to two weeks leave. This is in addition to 13 weeks unpaid parental leave.
Statutory Paternity Pay is paid for up to two weeks . The rate is currently £124.88 a week (or 90% of average weekly earnings if that is less).
ACAS
ACAS is the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service who help to improve organisations and working life through better employment relations. In a nutshell, they can give you advice about maternity / paternity issues, working parents, and flexible working practices.
They have a helpline: 08457 47 47 47. Or check out the ACAS website.
Leaflets - Expecting A Baby
If you want to find out the specific benefits and services available to you if you are expecting a baby, then check out the Department for Work and Pensions website.