Work
Employment protections
If I have a job, can I get fired because I’m pregnant?
Human Rights Act 1993, ss 21,22 Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, s 49
No, this is a form of discrimination. Your boss (“employer”) can’t discriminate against you because you are pregnant or on parental leave. This means they can’t fire you or treat you less favourably than another person because of your pregnancy.
See the “Employment conditions and protections” chapter in the Community Law Manual for more information on employment rights.
If I’m finding work difficult while I’m pregnant, can I ask my employer to give me different duties?
Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, s 16
Yes, you should discuss this with your employer. If being pregnant means you can’t do your job safely or properly, your employer may give you other tasks temporarily.
If your employer can’t find other work for you, you may be asked to go on parental leave early. This will not affect your leave entitlements.
