Report Highlights Lack of Workplace Support for Employees Experiencing Pregnancy or Baby Loss

Report Finds More Pregnancy and Baby Loss Support Is Needed

The report's findings included:

• 25% of employees who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss received paid compassionate or other leave from their employer.
• One in five people who had experienced pregnancy or baby loss said they didn’t receive any support from their employer.
• 24% have considered leaving their job because of their experience at work in relation to pregnancy or baby loss.

After compassionate leave, the other types of support identified by employees as most helpful in the aftermath of pregnancy or baby loss were understanding from managers and colleagues that it is a difficult time, paid time off to attend appointments and the option to work from home when needed.

How Can Employees Support Employees Experiencing Pregnancy or Baby Loss?

37% of organisations surveyed had a formal policy in place to support employees experiencing pregnancy or baby loss. For employers without a dedicated policy, there is nevertheless an opportunity to provide support. It may be sensible to review existing policies in order to ensure they align and are consistent in the types of leave and support that might be available for staff experiencing pregnancy or baby loss. It may also be sensible to consider where any information on pregnancy or baby loss is stored. If relevant information is stored (for example) within the maternity leave policy, this may be viewed as insensitive or triggering for affected staff.

Alongside any policy review, it is important for employers to ensure line managers are equipped to respond sensitively and appropriately in the event a member of their team tells them they are experiencing pregnancy or baby loss. It may be appropriate to provide training or line manager guidance.

For further advice or support, please contact Rory Jutton in our Employment team on 0117 314 5286, or complete the form below.