Signed off work

[october92]

Good morning all,

I have been signed off work for two weeks because of back pain. I am currently 20 weeks pregnant. I’m worried my work will sack me but I’m not sure if I’m being irrational...

It’s also the qualifying period for SMP right now, however, I have read my company’s sickness policy and I should be entitled to full pay. Does this mean my SMP will not be affected?

Hi OP

I don't think they will be able to sack you as it would be classed as unfair dismissal. Pregnancy sickness absences at my place are record but don't go towards the sickness days that can trigger formal action.

Not sure on the SMP question sorry!

Can I ask- when your back pain started? I am 14 weeks and been struggling the last couple of weeks- it seems to be getting worse! I have been taken paracetamol but that doesn't do anything and trying to keep active (swimming walking) to see if that helps but it isn't!! I am worried it is going to continue to get worse and I'll end up on the sick as well 😕

I've had a few days off but though the absences have been recorded they've not counted as sick days. My understanding is that it only affects SMP etc if you're signed of within 4 weeks of when you request your maternity deposit start. For me, my leave starts 16th Dec but if I was signed off from now, I'd have to start my leave earlier. Could you contact the HR dept to double check?