Prevented from working: can they do this?

[Peckhamite]

I am 15 weeks pregnant and am a social worker. I am being told I cannot do direct visits to children and families. No risk assessment has been complete with me as an individual. I am strongly of the view that I would wish to do this part of my job whilst practicing social distancing and using PPE. Is my employer able to prevent me from doing this? Am I breaching my contract if I carry out some of my normal duties?

Yes, your employer can do that. Pregnant women are classed as clinically vulnerable to coronavirus. It is therefore reasonable for your employer to take steps to protect you. If you visit people after being instructed not to do so that is a disciplinary offence.

Query it with HR. I know many HCPs that are prenant and still in patient facing roles.

The fact that other employers take a different view doesn't mean that the OP's employer is wrong to act as they have.

I work for an LA and my pregnant employee was sent home before lockdown. I’d rather be careful with that baby for a few months even if it isn’t needed at the end.

@prh47bridge

Yes, your employer can do that. Pregnant women are classed as clinically vulnerable to coronavirus. It is therefore reasonable for your employer to take steps to protect you. If you visit people after being instructed not to do so that is a disciplinary offence.

This.