What you need to know
It is important that you have read and understood JSP 760 - Tri-Service Regulations for Leave and Other Types of Absences (chapter 24) before proceeding.
As a Service person, you’re entitled to up to 52 weeks of maternity leave, whatever your length of service. You may also be eligible for 39 weeks of Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), the first 26 weeks of which may be enhanced to your full pay rate.
In addition to the above, you’re also entitled to reasonable paid time off for antenatal appointments, parent-craft classes and medical examinations. You’ll need to supply a doctor’s certificate confirming pregnancy. You may also be asked to provide written proof of the appointments.
Whether you intend to return to work or not, you may also take up to three weeks of unpaid antenatal leave between the 14th and 11th week prior to the expected week of childbirth. To qualify, you must elect to start your Ordinary Maternity Leave at the 11th week prior to the expected week of childbirth.
The first six weeks of SMP will be paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings before tax. The remaining 33 weeks will be paid at the lower of either the standard rate of SMP or 90% of your average weekly earnings.
If the other parent is a Service person, they can apply to take up to 2 days’ leave to accompany an expectant mother to antenatal appointments.
What you need to do
If you are regular forces and need to submit a maternity absence request, you will need to complete one of the following forms:
- JPA R004 Application for Maternity Leave (returning to work after leave)
- JPA R005 Application for Maternity Leave (leaving the service)
Please note: No later than the 15th week before the Expected Week of Childbirth (EWC) or, if this is not possible, as soon as is reasonably practicable.
- obtain MAT B1 from your doctor or the equivalent if you're serving overseas
- you can only do this within 20 weeks of when you are expected to give birth
You should then ask your Commanding Officer/Line Manager to countersign the JPA form before sending it to your Unit HR office, together with the maternity certificate MATB1 or equivalent. If there is a delay in obtaining the maternity certificate, you can send this on separately once you’ve received it.
In due course you will receive a letter of acknowledgment from your Personnel Management Authority, confirming your maternity leave and pay entitlements.
