Employment Rights Act 1996: Primary legislation governing employment rights in England and Wales, including basic maternity rights and protections
Work and Families Act 2006: Primary legislation that extended maternity rights and introduced additional family-friendly policies
Equality Act 2010: Primary legislation protecting against discrimination, including pregnancy and maternity discrimination
Maternity and Parental Leave Regulations 1999: Secondary legislation detailing specific requirements for maternity leave, including notice periods and leave entitlements
Statutory Maternity Pay (General) Regulations 1986: Secondary legislation governing the payment of Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and related requirements
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999: Secondary legislation requiring risk assessments for pregnant workers and new mothers
15-Week Notice Requirement: Statutory requirement for employees to give notice at least 15 weeks before the expected week of childbirth
52-Week Leave Entitlement: Total maternity leave entitlement comprising 26 weeks Ordinary Maternity Leave and 26 weeks Additional Maternity Leave
Return to Work Rights: Legal right to return to the same or similar role after maternity leave, with protected terms and conditions
Health and Safety Protections: Specific protections requiring employers to assess and address risks to pregnant employees and new mothers
