Work/sickness queries (pregnancy related)

[MeDownSouth]

Hi,

Just a quick question. If I'm off sick does my manager have to tell people (at my level or above her) why or is that confidential? I''m assuming confidential but I may be wrong. Also if those sicknesses are a result of or exacerbated (ie. would normally be in) by pregnancy can they disclose it to future employers in the sickness absences bit of a reference? (No HR dept at work and no recent pregnancies there so want to check and google has failed me so far)

Thanks

[DoreenLethal]

They can tell upwards but not downwards as it is private and confidential info; unless it may have affected others. EG if you have chickenpox and there may be others who are pregnant.

[MeDownSouth]

Thanks, I thought that would be the case

[bingobingoed]

Pregnancy sickness is covered by the equalities act and therefore is not counted in your sickness absence.

[MeDownSouth]

Thanks Bingo :)