Can anyone advise me before I talk to my boss I work part time 25 hrs a weeks as a barmaid Ive worked for my lovely boss on and off for years however I dont have a contract and I wish to leave 5ish weeks before my dd and return after my 26 weeks maternity leave is up and work even less hrs 15-20 at most. What my question is - can I still ask for maternity pay even though I dont have a contract??? any help would be greatIm finding the whole maternity leave thing really confusing

I'm not sure. If he's a nice guy why dont you ask him about satutory maternity pay?? Or you could maybe try citizens advice??

Are you getting paid cash in hand, or are you paying tax and NI. If you are on the books, then he will have to pay you Maternity Pay. I don't have a contract as an evening cleaner, but have worked for my boss for years. He paid me in my last pregnancy 95% of my wages. He gets it back from the government anyway, so it's not like he goes short !! However, if you get paid cash in hand, I don't think you'll be eligible for anything As said previously, pop into the CAB, they should be able to help. It does depend on how long you've worked there too.... It is all very confusing isn't it
Good Luck