The NHS scheme
8 weeks at full pay, then 18 weeks at half pay plus SMP, then 13 weeks of SMP only. You can take a further 13 weeks unpaid.
Estimates only, using national rates. Your payslip and your employer's policies are what count.
Free calculator
NHS maternity pay calculator
See how your NHS maternity pay is paid out week by week.
Total maternity pay over 39 weeks
£16,341
- Weeks 1–8 (full pay)
- £4,959
- Weeks 9–26 (half pay + SMP)
- £8,948
- Weeks 27–39 (SMP only)
- £2,433
Needs 12 months' continuous NHS service by the 11th week before your due date, and a return to NHS work for at least 3 months. SMP uses the 2025/26 rate. Before deductions.