Is there any way I can check a company's maternity policy before deciding to accept a job?

Question

I am job hunting and a companies maternity policy could make a massive difference to deciding which company I go to work for.

Is there a database or website that lists various companies maternity policies or recommends companies with particularly good ones?

Answer 1

Unless they have their HR policies on the web then no there is no way of finding this out.  Some employers such as universities publish there HR handbooks on the web so do a web search just in case.

There is no database that carries copies of these as most employers would like to keep them private.

There may be websites that recommend companies but then you are completely dependent upon whether the information is up to date and correct or biased.  

Answer 2

Gail is completely correct - because UK law is already so generous in its' provision of maternity benefits, virtually no private sector employers give anything over and above this.

You could look for work in the public sector as usually employers in that sector are more accommodating of flexible working hours and so on, but of course they pay less ... I know that I personally would prefer more money and no flexibility in my hours.

Answer 3

IF you need a job then you can not afford to limit your options........

in this economy and slow job market employers can be extremely selective. going into the process openly wondering about how much time off from work you will be allowed or if you will be paid while on leave at some point in time is not the best way to start the process.

IF a job is offered you should have all the information about pay and benefits presented to you so you can make a decision at that time.

it is highly ill-advised at this time to not apply for a job just due to a lack of benefits that fit your needs. after a job is offered you don't have to accept it;  but shouldn't you at least get the offer first?.

at least go to the door and see what is there?

Answer 4

Several of the women's magazines run stories every year about the best companies for women based on different criteria.  Do a web search for them.

The best way to know for sure is list the companies you are interested in and call the Human Resource Department and ask to speak with someone in benefits.  They should tell you everything you need to know.

Answer 5

If you work in ANY company for 2 years+ you qualify for maternity benefits, you get full pay for 6 weeks from leaving and about £100 per week till your years maternity leave is up. This is a government thing check out government website

Answer 6

In the UK there is a statutory law for maternity leave and pay/allowance. This is quite generous and allows flexibility. I doubt very much if you would find a company that would expand on these terms and conditions.

Depending on your length of service and your annual pay will determine what you can expect. Acas website or BERR will give you all the information you need.