Instead of having to stop work six weeks before the due date so as to be eligible for the full 18-weeks maternity benefit, expectant mothers can work up to the last minute. That means babies will benefit from having mums at home for up to six weeks more than at present.
Earlier this year the States approved changes to the Maternity Benefit legislation which will give women more flexibility over when they start their maternity allowance period.
The new benefit rules also introduce “keeping in touch” days which allow women to work a maximum of ten days while on maternity leave without loss of benefit.
The Minister for Social Security, Susie Pinel, said: “The Department has modernised maternity benefit. Up until now many women were unable to claim 18 weeks’ worth of benefit if they did not want to give up work a full six weeks before their baby was due. Now, if women wish, they can stay at work much closer to their expected date, and take longer off after the birth to spend with their new baby, without losing benefit.”
The process for claiming maternity benefits has also been reviewed and will be quicker and easier for the claimant, she added.
