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Pregnancy

Telling work

7 replies

SammyW33 · 20/02/2014 09:02

When do I need to tell my employer that I'm pregnant? I haven't had my scan yet, this is booked in early March but I'm starting to show a little. I don't think, assuming all is ok, that I could get to 20 weeks without it being obvious.

Presumably it's good form to be upfront as early as possible?

My only other two concerns are my bonus which should be sizeable. It is based on the fiscal year but is discretionary and paid six months later I.e. I'm already going to be on SMP as mat pay is statutory only. Can a bonus be paid whilst on SMP? Can they get out of paying it?

I've also only been in current role for 15 months. I'm worried they'll get rid of me. What are my rights? As I understand it there's no recourse in first 2 years of employment.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

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akachan · 20/02/2014 09:21

The two years is not relevant because discrimination protection is immediate so you cannot be sacked for being pregnant at any point.

You bonus should be payable but it will depend on the exact wording of the scheme. It might be worth speaking to an employment lawyer if it's a sizeable amount at risk. Where I used to work they tried hard to avoid paying bonuses to people on maternity leave and I actually got that changed - I was the in house lawyer there. Sorry to be a bit vague but it really is very scheme dependant. They may be able to pro rate it if you are away for some of the qualifying period for example.

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akachan · 20/02/2014 09:22

This is quite a good summary - www.hrlaw.co.uk/site/toptips/baby_bonuses.html

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Honeybear30 · 20/02/2014 09:25

Hi Sammy. Assuming you've performed adequately to be awarded the bonus I see no reason why it won't be paid whilst you're on maternity leave.

You need to inform your employer 15 weeks before your expected due date at the latest. So you've got a while yet.

And as for employment rights- you don't need two years service to be protected from discrimination. Discrimination is excepted from the two years qualifying service rule. If your employer were to get rid of you they would be at extreme risk of tribunal and unfair dismissal.

I hope it goes well when you tell them.

It makes me really sad that women still feel like they will be got rid of for being pregnant. I'm sure this does still happen but isn't it just such a shame?! I guess I'm lucky that I have an employer who works by the book. Also helps that I work in the HR dept I suppose.

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Honeybear30 · 20/02/2014 09:26

Woops cross post!

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SammyW33 · 20/02/2014 14:17

Thank you both, yes it is sad I'm worried about this but I guess it's natural. I work in a very male dominant environment. Thank you for the advice and guidance. Fingers crossed they will be good to me.

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Kellyjdancer · 20/02/2014 15:38

I also work in a male dominated company and I was shocked at how genuinely excited all the guys are for me. It was such a relief. I've really seen a different side to my colleagues as most of them already have kids themselves and they are excited to welcome me to their "club."

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SammyW33 · 20/02/2014 18:08

That's the main difference my boss doesn't have children and only one colleague does :-(