What is Pregnancy Discrimination?
It refers to a situation where you’re given less priority than other employees because you’re pregnant.
For example,
An employer treats you unfairly just because you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or because you’ve recently given birth. In such a case, you may be believed to be discriminated against.
The Equality Act 2010
According to the Equality Act 2010, this is pregnancy and maternity discrimination. It says that no one can discriminate against unfair treatment and dismiss you because of your pregnancy.
Types of Pregnancy Discrimination
1. Unfavourable Treatment – In this type of treatment:
- A pregnant woman:
- is protected against unfavourable treatment
- as an employee or job applicant, can’t face a disadvantage
- can’t meet any unwanted behaviour nor be treated unfairly.
2. Victimisation –
- An employee during her pregnancy becomes a victim of harm, suffering from damage, or loss just because she supports a complaint of discrimination.
- She suffers a loss just because she becomes evidence of a complaint about discrimination.
As an employee or job applicant, you have the right to:
- care for yourself and your baby
- reasonable paid time off work duties for your antenatal care
- receive protection against unfair dismissal, treatment
- take 52 weeks of maternity leave and be paid
If you’ve been discriminated against, it’s advisable to find an experienced law solicitor and file a suit against your employer.
