To help you to take time off work both before and after your baby is born, you may be able to get Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), a weekly payment from your employer. 

If you are not eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay and you or your partner or civil partner are claiming benefits or tax credits, you may be able to get a Sure Start Maternity Grant. 

If you're pregnant or have a new baby but don't qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), you may be able to claim Maternity Allowance (MA) through Jobcentre Plus. 

If you are on a low income, the Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-off payment to help towards costs of a new baby and you don't have to repay it.