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.

Changes to Work & Families Act and Maternity & Family Rights

Just over a week ago Maternity rights were significantly improved and Carers now have the right to request employers for flexible working. This is brilliant news.

The change of employers’ attitude towards parents working flexibly has been momentous since 2003. The new legislation should bring about a sea change for carers also.

The Keeping in Touch days for mothers on maternity leave will help maintain women’s professional confidence so they feel positive about returning to work. Professional self-esteem can drop quickly when any employee is away from work for several consecutive months.

Here is an excellent document published by the Equal Opportunities Commission to help both pregnant employees and their employers. It's called the Pregnancy Toolkit.
http://www.eoc.org.uk/Default.aspx?page=19177