Maternity (SMP), Paternity (SPP) and other Family Benefits

SMP

Eligibility: To qualify for Maternity, Employees need to be working for us forcontinuously for 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week (the qualifying week) before expected week of childbirth. Employees must earn on average at least £123 a week, and give the correct notice (15 weeks before due date). If an Employee is not eligible for Maternity Pay, they still might be able to get Maternity allowance from the government.

Entitlement: SMP is paid up to 39 weeks. They are entitled to:

 90% of the weekly earnings before tax for the first 6 weeks

 For current amounts, see here.

How to Claim: To claim for SMP, the employee must tell the Employer (Clipper) at least 15 weeks before the due date. This can be requested in writing. Employees must then provide proof of pregnancy to be able to receive SMP. This can be a letter from a Doctor or Midwife, or an MATB1 certificate. Doctors or Midwives usually issue these 20 weeks before the due date.

SPP

Eligibility: To qualify for Paternity, employees need to be working for us for continuously for 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week (the qualifying week) before expected week of childbirth. Employees must earn on average at least £123 a week, be employed up to the date of birth and give the correct notice (15 weeks before due date).

Entitlement: SPP is paid for 2 weeks for Ordinary Paternity Pay or up to an additional 26 weeks Additional Paternity leave, as long as the mother or co-adopter returns to work. They are entitled to:

 1 or 2 weeks Paternity Pay

 See current amounts here.

How to claim: To claim for SPP, the employee must tell the employer (Clipper) at least 15 weeks before the due date. This should be requested in writing, stating the baby’s due date and when you expect the pay to start. This should be followed up with an SC3 form (to be given no later than 28 days before the pay is due to start.

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Updated on: 24/10/2025