yes, it certainly is. i've got a hairdressers and employ 4 girls. one of them was on maternity last year and what a bloody fiasco that turned into.

only for the employers

I once worked for a firm of solicitors who made it virtually impossible to start maternity leave. I was told when I could go (a fortnight before my child was born). Also they made it impossible for me to attend any antenatal appointments, asking are they really necessary. And finally, when I returned to work and asked to work part time, I was given the worst hours anyone could ask for (two full days and three afternoons) despite other members of staff having a whole day off! Talk about victimisation. Also, when I wanted to attend clinic appointments with my daughter (on a Friday afternoon) after asking if this was absolutely necessary, they made me complete an overtime form for the Fridays that I could work and was then paid the following month. Had enough in the end and now thoroughly enjoy being a stay at home mum (wouldn't have it any other way). I have since spoken to some of my old colleagues who inform me that I am lucky I got out when I did, as the working environment is getting worse.