Investigation into pregnancy at work

The Equal Opportunities Commission and NetMums published survey results about pregnancy at work at the end of March. They found that only 4 in 10 mums thought their bosses fully understood how to manage pregnant staff. Only half of mums felt they were aware of their own rights and responsibilities.
1 in 6 women said they were not treated very well by their employer or line manager while pregnant.
1 in 4 felt they were not treated well on their return after maternity leave.
Read the press release here:
http://www.eoc.org.uk/Default.aspx?page=20149

This is very disappointing news but here's our positive plan on how to handle your situation at work:

• Know your rights and assert them. Read up on your entitlements and educate your employer if they need it!
• Seize the bull by the horns and arrange the post-birth discussions sooner rather than later.
• Go to the table with creative suggestions and solutions; don't expect miracles from your manager.
• Be patient if you don't get the reaction you hoped for straight away. It may be your line manager's first experience of pregnancy at work.
• Keep in touch while you are away on maternity leave. Boost your professional confidence by making use of the "Keeping in Touch" days and don't be forgotten.
• Go back to work when you are ready, with flexible working arrangements to suit your needs.
• Share your experiences with others so everyone can learn how to handle the situation optimally.