Pregnancy and possible redundancy

[Limmers14]

Hi all,

Just looking for some advice. I am 5 weeks pregnant after IVF (manager is aware re IVF). My company has been going through layoffs since Feb and I’m worried that at some point it’ll be me. My bit of the company has already been affected but you just never know.

I understand there is new legislation as part of the Equality Act that gives pregnant women the same protection as women on mat leave. Should I tell my boss once I’ve had my 7 week scan so that I can be “officially” protected? Should I tell him earlier? I’m worried it might put a target on my back but on the other hand, it could make my company think twice if they are considering making my role redundant? My maternity leave is 6 months full pay.

I'd tell them asap.

Yes tell them.

Tell them asap

You need to tell them. If you don't, you won't be protected.

It’s a misconception that you are totally protected from redundancy during pregnancy or maternity leave - you have enhanced protection but they can still make you redundant if they follow the process

Thanks all, sounds like I should inform them the next chance I get.

I’ve copied this from Citizens Advice. While I’m aware I wouldn’t be fully protected if the worst happens, they do have to offer me another job if there’s one suitable, like they do when a woman is on mat leave.

“Your employer must offer you another job if they have one suitable for you. They shouldn’t make you apply or compete against other employees.
Your employer can ask you for information to check the job is suitable for you. They can't ask you to come to an interview to see who's best for the job - you should be picked automatically.
It’s automatically unfair dismissal if your employer has a job that’s suitable for you but they don’t offer it to you. It might be maternity discrimination as well”