Maternity Leave Isn’t a Substitute for Annual Leave

by | Oct 17, 2023 | HR Policies | 0 comments

I am frequently asked whether maternity leave and annual leave can be taken in the same year, but I have never been asked whether paternity leave and annual leave can be taken in the same year. Somehow the answer on paternity leave is pretty clear, yet many struggle to apply the same principle to maternity leave.

My simple answer is Yes, they can and should be taken in the same year. It is good practice. My reason is that they serve different purposes and should not be lumped or made exclusive of each other.

Annual leave is earned by all staff. It serves the purpose of taking time off to rest from work. Just like exam leave or compassionate leave to attend a burial, all forms of leave serve a specific purpose.

So, why is it so difficult to understand that there is a leave of all leaves; maternity leave. A specific leave covering child birth. A period dedicated to preserving humanity, by providing new mothers adequate time to give birth, recover, care for, and bond with their new baby before returning to work.

Why should a pregnant woman be denied proceeding on annual leave because she plans to go on maternity leave?

Imagine having a pregnancy due in September but being told to hold off on annual leave days because you are due for maternity leave soon. Why risk the health of a pregnant woman? She is not only entitled by law to take the leave accrued for the time she has worked, she has earned it and it is necessary for her wellbeing.

I know there are organisations with policies prohibiting maternity leave and annual leave to be taken in the same year, but they are poor and risky practices, devoid of legalities and first principles.

Maternity leave is a specific leave for a specific purpose. It has nothing to do with annual leave unless you force it to.

Please allow pregnant women breathe.

They did not impregnate themselves. The other responsible party is most likely working elsewhere and no one is contemplating whether or not they are entitled for paternity leave and annual leave in the same year.

Please stop the discrimination.

Let pregnant women breathe.

Your thoughts?


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