UK employees are entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP), and Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) provided they meet the qualifying conditions. These are legal minimums — many employers offer enhanced packages.
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)
SMP is paid for 39 weeks: the first 6 weeks at 90% of your average weekly earnings, then 33 weeks at £184.03/week (or 90% if lower). You must have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before your due date.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
SSP is £116.75 per week for up to 28 weeks. It starts from the 4th qualifying day of illness. You must earn at least £123 per week to qualify. SSP is subject to tax and NI deductions.