Anyone who works in a school that can help me out?

[Theirmumxx]

I’m 31 weeks pregnant and really struggling with work. I’m a teaching assistant in a primary school and have been struggling with anaemia since I was 18 weeks pregnant. On top of that I’ve had persistent reduced fetal movements recently and am going for regular monitoring at my hospital. I feel really overwhelmed.

I want a sick note for at least a couple of weeks as having to leave work regularly due to feeling sick/dizzy/reduced movements etc. I’ve been off a few times this year tho and wondered if there is a cut off point for when you stop being paid? E.g If I’ve been off 6 times ( a day or 2 here and there) will I still be paid?? Some of the absences were pregnancy related but others were like a viral infection etc?

I want the time off because I’m so stressed which isn’t good for baby but can’t afford to be unpaid?

Ive never heard anything about only being able to have so many absences paid but yet again worrying about something I probably don’t need to.

You might find this page helpful, OP.

maternityaction.org.uk/advice/sickness-during-pregnancy-and-maternity-leave/

My understanding is that pregnancy related sickness is categorised separately to non-pregnancy related sickness - but I'm sure someone HR-y will be along in a minute to give more info...

Whether you get paid or not is separate. Some employers only pay SSP, some pay up to 6 months full pay for example, you need to look at your contract

When you are over 36 weeks,your maternity leave will be triggered automatically by pregnancy related sickness.
Otherwise is will be paid at normal sick pay rate (full pay if your contract is like mine).

Speak to your business manager or bursar. They should be able to clarify your sickness policy. It will also be in your contract. Pregnancy related leave is not counted the same way as normal sick leave. If you need time off speak to your HT about reduced days or get a sick note from the GP. When did you last have a risk assessment down? Did it mention anything about 3rd trimester adjustments?

Could you consider putting in an adjustment to your work hours or request more breaks? This might be included in your risk assessment. I’m struggling at 11 weeks and work in a school. I’m also anaemic and have high bp.