Rise in pregnancy-related unfair dismissal claims

1,000 women a year take legal action claiming they were sacked for being pregnant, a report published today reveals.

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) claims this figure is the tip of the iceberg.

In 2002, the last year for which statistics are available, the number of pregnancy-related unfair dismissals claims was 957, compared to 778 in 1996.

Between 1996 and 2002, 7,461 claims were lodged. Of those heard by tribunal, 37 per cent ended in the employee complaint being upheld. The average payout was £2,000.

The findings are the first to emerge from a comprehensive EOC survey, actively supported by Usdaw, into pregnancy discrimination in the workplace.

Usdaw is undertaking its own survey of women members, who account for around two-thirds of the total 330,000 membership. Members are encouraged to complete a questionnaire, which must be returned to Central Office by Friday 5th March 2004.

Members can also vote in our online web site survey which asks: 'If you have been pregnant, did your employer treat you fairly?' So far, the results show an almost 50-50 split.

Usdaw Women and Equalities Officer Ruth Cross encouraged union members to participate. She said: "Every year, the union deals with hundreds of members who are having problems at work while they are pregnant or on maternity leave. Usdaw's Women and Equalities Section receives more telephone calls on pregnancy and maternity than any other enquiry, so we know our members are having problems.

"Our survey coincides with this major drive by the EOC to uncover the truth behind the treatment of pregnant workers. We have compiled a questionnaire which we have sent out to all of our branch secretaries.

"Of course there are responsible employers out there, and we want to hear about them too so we can compile a best practice guide. The more evidence we get from our members the stronger the case we can put to both the EOC and the Government for improvements in the current legislation.

"So far, we have had a tremendous response from our members, who clearly feel that this is a very important issue. We are currently receiving around 75 completed questionnaire forms every day."

Usdaw will submit its evidence to the EOC's investigation later this year. The EOC will then make recommendations to the Government next February.

Download File:
Usdaw pregnancy survey [ pdf ]
Contact Details
Women and Equalities Department
Ph:  0161 224 2804
Fax: 0161 257 2566
womenandequalities@usdaw.org.uk
http://www.usdaw.org.uk/equality

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