Many employers are not fully aware of where they stand on what pregnant women are entitled to. Many have ended up going to industrial tribunals and losing their businesses. This section is a basic guide.

What a pregnant woman is entitled to:

• Benefits such as her mobile phone and company car during maternity leave
• Any staff bonuses or pay rises over the period of leave
• 18 weeks' leave regardless of length of service
• 6 weeks' leave on 90% of salary, 12 weeks at £62.20
• 6 months' leave after birth date for women who have been employed for more than one year
• Request for part-time work must be seriously considered
• For women who have been at the company for six months in the 15th week before the birth date

We suggest you consult an employment solicitor to fully check whether your firm is complying properly with the new rules.