Going sick - when can they force you to start ML?

[Katoid]

I am knackered, feel pants and this pain in my bump isnt going away and i just want to sleep but cant because i am so uncomfy

I am most likely going to take tomorrow off sick, now i have not had a sick day yet with this pregnancy but i am worried that if i do then my work might try and force me to start ML early and i cant afford to start ML just yet.. (I am 26 weeks)

Can they do that?

TIA

[Alabama]

Not until 36 weeks (from www.direct.gov.uk):

Pregnancy-related illness

If you're off work for a pregnancy-related illness during the four weeks before your baby is due, your maternity leave and statutory maternity pay (from your employer) or maternity allowance (from Jobcentre Plus) will start automatically, no matter what you had agreed with your employer.

[Katoid]

Oh lovely thanks Alabama! I will be starting then anyway

[claireh]

Sorry to hear that you still have a sore bump Katoid

I hope you get to take it easy tomorrow. Good news that they can't force you to start mat leave yet.

xxx