“When I joined my current firm, I was encouraged to believe that my firm’s maternity policy was in line with market standard in the City.

“Finding myself unexpectedly but happily pregnant, I recently had cause to check the details – and the arrangements are far from generous. Nearly half the additional maternity pay will be held back for a year and paid as a “bonus” only after I have been back at work for six months, which will leave me strapped for cash at the time I need it most.