Plans For Further Protections for Expectant Mothers
The Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Bill has had its first reading in the House of Lords. There is no detail yet as to when draft regulations will be published to amend the Employment Rights Act 1996. However, should the Bill be enacted it will provide protection against redundancy for pregnant women as well as during or after maternity leave, adoption leave or shared parental leave that is not currently available.
At present there is no reason why a pregnant woman, or someone on maternity leave cannot be made redundant as long as the selection for redundancy is not related to a reason connected to child birth or maternity leave. Women have the protection of the Equality Act 2010 in that regard in that it is unlawful discrimination to cause a woman to suffer unfavourable treatment for a reason connected to pregnancy, child birth or maternity leave. So, watch this space for new laws on their way affording even greater protection.
If you require advice about redundancy or your rights and entitlements during pregnancy and/or maternity leave our employment law specialist, Jennifer Carpenter, solicitor and managing partner has over 20 years experience of advising employees and employers.
