Pregnant during covid

[Clasikal]

Hi was after some advice, is anyone more than 28 weeks pregnant and is your job working closely with the public?
Gov advises to try and work from home when 28 weeks, but in my job I cant and I am very anxious about my safety at work during covid. Anyone is similar position? Thanks

[lilianlawrie91]

SisterCreep your right some definitely twist it to suit themselves. Im March last year all the pregnant people in my store were sent home regardless of gestation. They say its different this time because we know more about avoiding risks. Im not convinced its any safer. The government really should do a standard statement for all to clear up this mess

[WindFlower92]

I see my midwife next week, I think I'll ask her if it's possible for her to sign me off as I've asked my head a couple of times and they keep saying no, so I don't think they'll change their mind @Sixpencefaux! This has definitely made me reevaluate my willingness to work there after maternity leave!

[laura2109]

I don't really relate to this thread, but just wanted to ask how you lot manage to work so far into pregnancy?! I'm 35 weeks and just a couple of steps is a challenge, and I don't walk but waddle, sitting for more than 20 minutes at times make me exhausted etc... How are you coping, especially those working in retail, being on your feet most of the day?!!? On a side note, what some employers are doing is disgusting, seek legal advice!

[Clasikal]

Wildflower92 yeah my employers are exactly the same dont think they will change their mind, it's awful the way they are treating us!
Laura2109 I was planning on taking my maternity leave at 36 weeks if I can make it that far, I'm only at 28 weeks, I am definitely feeling more exhausted at work though.

[Clasikal]

Sistercreep I spoke to gp today but not much help about being signed off, she suggested I get another risk assessment done! I work very closely with customers so it's impossible to socially distance! I'm really anxious, dont think I can face going in without being so upset and angry!

[SisterCreep]

Clasikal You should try and go through your midwife to get a sick note. Explain that you are incredibly stressed and anxious about going to work and that you aren't sleeping because of it. Your GP should be doing everything they can to make this a stress free time for you. I don't understand why they write sick notes for any Tom, Dick, and Harry but when you genuinely need one they hold back. It's frustrating.

[Sansa87]

I don’t really have anything extra to add. The company should do regular risk assessments for covid though. That’s a legal requirement as far as I’m aware.

My company has just redone theirs to coincide with government advice and I’ll be medically suspended from 28 weeks (I’m 25+4 today)

I’m so happy because work has been tough, & I dread customers bringing in covid.

[Sixpencefaux]

My midwife did write me a letter to give to my employer. I also spoke to my gp who agreed to sign me off for two weeks with anxiety. In the end ai didn’t use either as my employer let me go but there were options of your anxiety is really bad.

[lilianlawrie91]

laura2109 I think being able to work later for me is just luck more than anything. Everyone is different in pregnancy some get an easier time than others. This is my third baby and its been my worst pregnancy in terms of sickness but other than that I'm not bad. I know my bump isn't massive compared with others at my stage but my babies are always a fair size. Probably because I'm tall. Its hard doing my 9 hour shifts and I'm not allowed to lift anything too heavy but i can move to checkouts whenever I'm at the point its too difficult.