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Want to stay on the right side of the law? We support businesses and public authorities and help them to promote good practice.
 
 

Pregnancy discrimination

Pregnancy/Maternity at work

What you need to know

 

Guidance for employers - what is pregnancy discrimination?


It is unlawful pregnancy discrimination to treat an employee less favourably:
 
  • on the grounds that she is pregnant.
  • for a reason relating to her pregnancy, or;
  • because of illness related to her pregnancy.

Some examples of where a woman's treatment would constitute pregnancy discrimination include:
 
  • She is temporarily unable to do the job for which she is employed, whether permanently or on a fixed-term contract on the grounds of her pregnancy.
  • She is temporarily unable to work because to do so would be a breach of health and safety regulations.
  • The cost of covering her work is too expensive to the business.
  • Her absence is due to pregnancy related illness.
  • Her inability to attend a disciplinary hearing due to morning sickness or other pregnancy-related conditions or;
  • Poor performance linked to pregnancy related conditions, for example morning sickness.

Who is protected from pregnancy discrimination?

 

When is a woman protected from pregnancy discrimination?

 

What is unfavourable treatment?

 
 
 
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