Equality watchdog advises employers on updated pregnancy and maternity protections in the workplace

Summary:

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has released an updated toolkit to guide employers on preventing pregnancy and maternity discrimination at work. The toolkit reflects changes to the law that came into effect on April 6, 2024. Key points include:

Extended protection from redundancy for pregnant women and those on maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave
Offering suitable alternative employment for pregnant women and those on leave, with priority over other employees
Providing the right to request flexible working from the first day of employment
Increased flexibility in taking paternity leave

Employers are advised to review the toolkit and ensure their policies are compliant with the law to protect pregnant staff and those taking parental leave from discrimination. The EHRC's Chairman, Baroness Kishwer Falkner, emphasized the importance of employers understanding their legal duties to promote equality in the workplace.