Planning maternity leave? Read our guide
21 February 2023
Police officers who are planning to take maternity leave can now find out their entitlements by using a ready reckoner created by the Federation.
The calculator allows users to enter a due date and plan for other scenarios, such as early birth, extended maternity leave, or sickness for pregnancy-related reasons in the weeks prior to their due date.
Pete Nightingale, interim chair of West Mercia Police Federation, explained: “The rules around maternity leave are different for police officers. For example, they are eligible for both Police Maternity Pay and Statutory Maternity Pay but not statutory maternity leave, only police maternity leave.
“If an officer takes early leave due to premature birth or sickness, things can get complicated, and forces don’t always get it right. So, I would definitely recommend using the calculator and forearming yourself with the knowledge of what your entitlements are. We want members to be able to focus on welcoming their new arrival and not feel uncertain about what the future holds financially.
“However, if you do need extra advice or support, the Federation is here to help.”
A booklet has also been created to answer members’ questions around maternity leave, returning to work and entitlements available to partners.
