The maternity policy ensures that both the employee and the employer knows what to expect of each other if a staff member becomes pregnant.

It is helpful to include a reference to the maternity / paternity policy in the statement of employment but the policy can be a standalone document which can be easily kept up to date when there are policy changes.

Download the VCAS Model Maternity Policy to adapt for your own organisation

Other useful resources include:

• Business Link Guide to Maternity, Paternity and Adoption - A comprehensive range of issues are covered by this link, including Health and Safety, Pay related issues and issues around adoption.
• acas - The Parent and Carer section of the acas website includes information on maternity, paternity and adoption rights
• Direct Gov - Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Rights - personalised guidance
• acas - Advisory booklet - Flexible working and work-life balance
• Use the Business Link interactive tool to manage expectant and new mothers at work