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Pregnant whilst on a fixed term contract - what are my rights?

3 replies

ilovepeas · 14/03/2010 09:25

I have just found out I am pregnant for the 1st time (having not thought we would get pregnant so quickly) and due I think on 17 November. All quite nerve-wracking as I am currently working a maternity contract (!) which finishes on 3 Sept. I have worked out I would get paid maternity pay (only just) but terrified about what I'm going to do between Sept and Nov for money. There's a chance my job could turn into something more permanent but not if they know I am pregnant and I am the kind of build where I think it's going to be very obvious quite soon (my boobs are already 2 sizes bigger and I am only 4 weeks).
Has anyone had any experience of how to handle sensitive work/pregnancy situations? My DH works in a state school and although he should get paid 5 x as much for what he does (child behaviour mentor) he earns peanuts so the whole money thing has become quite a worry. Any advice would be so gratefully received.

OP posts:
lljkk · 14/03/2010 16:15

How long have you been in continuous employment with your current employer?

flowerybeanbag · 14/03/2010 16:50

In terms of your maternity rights as a fixed term employee, this factsheet has a whole section on it. If your job would become permanent but doesn't because you are pregnant that's illegal discrimination.

Between Sept and Nov you can start your mat leave from 29 weeks, so that's a possibility, or you could save up all your holiday entitlement and get it paid at the end of your contract to help with the gap.

WHat kind of sensitive work/pregnancy situations are you concerned about?

ilovepeas · 14/03/2010 22:00

Thanks lljkk - I have been there for over 26 weeks (since Dec 09) so am eligible for maternity pay.
Thank you for the factsheet flowerybeanbag - that's really useful. I had not thought about saving up all my holiday entitlement so will consider that.
I guess the sensitive situation I am worrying about is if they find out I am pregnant then they may not offer me a full time position if one comes up. I also dont want to appear deceptive but if they offer me a full time job I will want to accept but then will have to let them know I am pregnant... If I were an employer I would find that quite annoying I imagine!
Thanks very much for your help.

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