Know your rights

Flexible working hours

The Government is committed to helping you balance your work and family life. If you have children aged under 6, or a disabled child aged under 18, you have the right to ask your employer for flexible working hours. By law, they must seriously consider your request by following a set process. Visit the Directgov website for more information or call 08457 47 47 47.

Maternity leave and pay

It doesn't matter how long you've been in your job, or how few hours you work, you're still entitled to ordinary maternity leave (26 weeks). From 1st April 2007 you're now entitled to 26 weeks of ordinary maternity leave and 26 weeks of additional maternity leave no matter how long you have been with your employer. Depending on your employment history and average earnings, you may be able to receive Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance for 26 weeks, or up to 39 weeks. Visit the Directgov website for more information or call 08457 47 47 47.

Paternity leave and pay

If you are a father, you may be able to take up to 2 weeks' paid time off work around the time of your child's birth. Visit the Directgov website for more information or call 08457 47 47 47.

Adoption leave and pay

Adoption leave and pay may allow one member of an adoptive couple to take up to a year off work when their new child starts to live with them, with up to 39 weeks' Statutory Adoption Pay. Visit the Directgov website for more information or call 08457 47 47 47.

Unpaid leave to care for a young or disabled child

If you've been at work for a year or more, you may be entitled to take up to 13 weeks' unpaid leave to look after a young child under 5, or 18 weeks' unpaid leave to look after a disabled child under 18. This is called Parental Leave. Visit the Directgov website for more information or call 08457 47 47 47.

National Minimum Wage

The National Minimum Wage aims to make sure that workers are treated fairly and receive a minimum level of pay. Find out more about the National Minimum Wage (including who to contact if you don't think you're being paid enough) at www.berr.gov.uk or call 0845 6000 678.