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

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.

Thanks, I thought that would be the case

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

Thanks Bingo :)