28/02/2025
“The study also highlighted that half (49.5 per cent) of pregnant women, those on maternity leave, or those returning work encounter negative treatment. This included being sacked, bullied, harassed, having flexible working requests denied, breastfeeding discrimination and leaving jobs due to health and safety concerns.
A further third (35.9 per cent) said they were sidelined or demoted whilst pregnant, on maternity leave, or upon returning to work, while 12.4 per cent had been bullied or harassed. Of those who had negative experiences, one in five (20.6 per cent) left their employer.
Research from Pregnant Then Screwed in 2023 found one in 61 pregnant women said their boss suggested they should have an abortion.
Moreover, 64 per cent of pregnant women recalled receiving harmful remarks from their employer or colleagues about their appearance, while 74 per cent reported that their colleagues suggested their work performance had declined due to pregnancy.
Despite these widespread issues, the study found that only 2 per cent of affected women pursued a tribunal claim, the report”
Survey reveals half of expectant mothers face workplace challenges, as experts warn of ‘substantial and long lasting’ consequences of discrimination