The TUC’s Pregnancy Test: Ending Discrimination at Work for New Mothers report suggests that although legislation is in place to protect pregnant women and those on maternity leave from discrimination, poor employer attitudes still exists towards mums-to-be and mothers. Earlier this year the TUC carried out an online survey to find out the kind of treatment pregnant women and new mums had experienced, and its findings appear in the report as the ten most common complaints against employers.
For each complaint the report sets out how the employer is breaking the law. The complaints include being sacked for being pregnant, receiving unpleasant comments and negative reactions to their pregnancy announcements, being prevented from attending ante-natal appointments, and being given dangerous or risky jobs to do. Other concerns were being overlooked for promotion or training, disciplined for pregnancy-related sickness absence, or denied the chance to work flexibly.
Pages 16 and 17 of the report sets out five suggestions regarding changes that would improve the experiences of pregnant women and new mothers.
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This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
