Closed petition Increase Statutory Maternity Pay in line a 40 hours week on minimum wage

Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is currently set at £151. 20 a week, which is not enough to meet the cost of life in the UK and the added costs of providing for a baby, especially for families on low incomes. Government should increase SMP to allow all children to have the best start in life.

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The early years are a vulnerable time when children’s experiences and environments can negatively influence their development. Growing up in poverty has a long lasting impact on children's development, school attainment and health. Children in more deprived areas are more likely to face a serious illness during childhood and to have a long-term disability. The current SMP puts an added strain on single mothers and families on low incomes and negatively affects the life of their children.

This petition is closed All petitions run for 6 months

1,058 signatures

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10,000

Date closed 14 March 2021
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