Maternity, paternity and adoption guidance for students

This guidance explains the support available at LJMU for: 

  • students who become pregnant during their studies.
  • students who give birth during their studies.
  • students who are new mothers.
  • students whose partner becomes pregnant.
  • students who have recently become parents, for example, through adoption or surrogacy.

This will apply to most Undergraduate and Post Graduate Taught students however individual circumstances can differ and it is advised that you speak to Student Advice and Wellbeing for further information and guidance.

Miscarriage, still births and neonatal bereavement

If you have experienced a miscarriage, still birth or neonatal bereavement please know that support from the university, and signposting to external organisations, is available to you.

You can access wellbeing, mental health and counselling support from the university. Please contact Student Advice and Wellbeing for more information.

You may prefer to access support externally. Student Advice and Wellbeing can signpost you to local and national support networks, or you can contact them directly. Helpful links include Liverpool Family Information, the Miscarriage Association, and SANDS, which supports parents who experience a stillbirth or a neonatal bereavement.

Your rights

Pregnancy, maternity and breastfeeding are protected under the Equality Act 2010. You should not be treated less favourably because you are pregnant, have had a baby in the last 26 weeks, or are breastfeeding. The University will take a flexible, supportive and non‑judgemental approach.

Adequate consideration is given to the health, safety and welfare of students who are pregnant or who have recently given birth. LJMU recognises its obligations under health and safety and data protection law.

Informing the University

You are encouraged to tell the University as early as you feel comfortable. Students wishing to take Paternity Leave should also inform the university.

Normally this is done by speaking with your Personal Tutor (or Director of Studies for PGR students).

If you do not feel comfortable speaking to your academic department you can contact Student Advice and Wellbeing for confidential advice and support.

A discussion will take place about who will need to be informed and why, and discuss any support needs you may have. A Leave of Absence request will be used to agree your leave dates and planned return to study.

Some courses (for example health or laboratory‑based programmes) require early notification so a health and safety risk assessment can be completed.

Maternity, paternity and adoption leave

Maternity leave

  • You can take up to 52 weeks maternity leave.
  • Leave can start from 11 weeks before your due date.
  • You must take at least 2 weeks compulsory leave after birth.
  • Maternity leave is usually unpaid unless you qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance.

Paternity or partner leave

If your partner is pregnant or adopting, you can request time off for appointments and usually up to two weeks leave following the birth or adoption.

Adoption leave

If you are the primary adopter, you have the same entitlement as maternity leave.

Studying while pregnant

  • You are entitled to reasonable adjustments, such as flexibility with attendance, deadlines or exams.
  • You can take time off for antenatal appointments. This also applies if your partner is pregnant, or if you are attending adoption appointments.
  • Your Personal Tutor will work with you to plan your studies and check arrangements regularly.

Health and safety

A risk assessment will be completed if your course involves physical activity, placements, fieldwork, labs or other risks. Adjustments may be made during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. For safety reasons, students normally do not undertake fieldwork after 35 weeks of pregnancy.

Money and funding

If you receive tuition fee and maintenance funding your student funding will usually pause during a Leave of Absence. You can discuss your individual circumstances with the LJMU Money Advice Team who can provide you with information and guidance about funding you may be eligible for.

International students

If you hold a student visa, taking leave may affect your visa status. Seek advice from LJMU International Advice to fully understand your options.

Accommodation

If you live in student accommodation contact their hall provider or the LJMU Accommodation Team to discuss your options and any required adjustments.

Returning to study

The University will contact you before your planned return, please make sure you check your university email around a month before your scheduled return date. If your return date is approaching and you’ve not heard from the university it is advised you contact your Programme Leader, Faculty Office or Student Advice and Wellbeing.

Before you return, or once you’ve restarted your studies, you can discuss flexible study options, part‑time study, or further support if needed.

You can contact Student Advice and Wellbeing at any time during your leave of absence or upon your return.

Breastfeeding and babies on campus

LJMU holds the Liverpool Bambis Breastfeeding Friendly Mayoral Award, ensuring a supportive, welcoming environment for staff, students and visitors across campus. Breastfeeding is welcome in all public areas and private rooms are also available.

Support services

LJMU support services are available to all of our students and can provide you with a space to discuss your circumstances and receive information, advice and guidance. You are encouraged to seek advice early so the right support can be put in place.

Relevant External Documents

Related LJMU Policies and Documents