Pregnancy discrimination

More than three quarters of pregnant women and new mothers say they have experienced discrimination at work, new research shows.

It reveals that, despite 77% of working mothers reporting potentially discriminatory or negative experiences, only 28% raised the issue with their employer.

The report found that 10% of mothers have reported that their employer discouraged them from attending antenatal appointments.

One in five women said they had experienced harassment or negative comments related to pregnancy or flexible working from their employer or colleagues.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is behind the report and calls for the government to take action.

Among their recommendations are that employers should offer more family-friendly workplaces and there should be better access to information and advice for women and employers.

Jon Skewes, RCM director for employment relations, policy and communications, said: ‘The RCM welcomes the EHRC’s recommendations and we support their call on the government to take urgent action now.

‘It is deeply concerning that the rates of discrimination against pregnant women are still so high. Discrimination at work can cause stress, anxiety and depression which can potentially have an impact on the health of the woman and her baby.’

‘It also very worrying that the cases of women being denied time off to attend antenatal care are increasing.

‘Women who miss antenatal appointments miss out on essential screening tests and valuable advice around smoking, nutrition and their maternal mental health.’

He added that the government ‘must act to ensure pregnant women are not denied their rights’.

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