Anyone Work in HR or UK Employment Law?

[chele_belle]

I know this is a funny thing to ask on the Ledge, but I'm desperate for advice on SMP and fixed-term contracts.

I am currently employed on a 12 month fixed-term contract with a well-known international company to cover someone else's maternity leave. Since starting with the company I have fallen pregnant and am due on 24th June.

After waiting several weeks for a copy of the companies maternity policy, the company have told me today that they won't be paying me maternity pay beyond the date my contract was due to end, 13th July. They're saying I'll have to claim from the government beyond that. As far as I can see on other websites, this is totally wrong, but I want some solid advice before I ask for another meeting with HR.

Any help or advice anyone can offer me would be greatly appreciated.