Weeks 12 to 24GuidelineLegal step
Plan your maternity leave
26 weeks if you have fewer than 2 children.
Why It Matters (Clinical Guidance)
- Up to 8 of the 26 weeks can be taken before delivery.
- You need 80 days of work in the last year to qualify.
- Workplaces with 50 or more staff must offer a crèche.
Primary Citation: Code on Social Security, 2020 (in force 21 Nov 2025)
Last checked: October 2026 • Medical review panel forming