A pregnant woman is entitled up to 52 weeks of maternity leave, this is applicable from the first day of her employment, it is irrelevant the hours of work and length of service. But what about any other contractual benefits?
Some work places provide additional contract benefits to their staff, such as gym membership, private healthcare or childcare vouchers. During any maternity leave, this must still continue for the employee. If you attempt to refuse or suspend any schemes during maternity, paternity or sick leave this could be held as discrimination.
This is the same for pension contributions. Throughout the first 26 weeks of maternity leave, the employer’s contribution must continue at the employee’s normal rate of pay. However, during any unpaid maternity leave, the employer does not have any obligation to pay into a pension scheme unless the contract of employment states otherwise.
Entitlement to maternity pay is different from maternity leave, if you have any questions as to whether your employee is entitled to such pay, it’s best to give us a call.
Impression works with businesses across the automotive aftermarket supply chain such as parts suppliers, warehouse distributors, motor factors and independent garages. Covering all aspects of automotive aftermarket marketing, including social media, event management, customer newsletters and PR, Impression is able to quickly establish itself within a client’s business and work towards their objectives.
