 |
Arena Magazine 2007 Issue 3 Autumn Arena |
 |
Antenatal care entitlement
Your question answered.
I've just found out I'm pregnant, do I get paid time off for medical appointments?
If you are pregnant, you have the right to take reasonable paid time off work for your antenatal care. All pregnant women have this right, no matter how many hours you work or however recently you started your job.
Antenatal care includes the following:
- Appointments with your midwife, GP or hospital doctor.
- Antenatal and parentcraft classes.
- Relaxation classes.
How do I go about getting paid release?
Let your employer know as soon as you can when you need time off and how long you are likely to be away.
After your first appointment your employer can ask to see your appointment card and a certificate signed by your doctor, midwife or health visitor stating that you are pregnant.
How much time off can I take?
You are entitled to as much time off as you need. This includes the time it takes you to travel to and from your appointment or class. There is no limit to the amount of time you can take off, as long as you can show that it is reasonable and that the appointments are made on the advice of your doctor or midwife.
Your employer does not have the right to require you to take annual leave or to make up for lost time by working your lunch hour or working late. They also cannot change your normal working hours so that antenatal care falls outside them.
If your employer refuses to give you time off to attend antenatal care get in touch with your union rep or your local office as soon as possible.
While this advice is accurate it is not a definitive guide to the law.
If you have any concerns you should contact your local rep/official or ring the helpline 0845 6060640.
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
