Women to get employment advice with baby scans
4 Jan 07
EOC scheme to combat sex discrimination through rights statement given at hospital
Pregnant women are to receive a comprehensive guide to their rights and their employer's responsibilities in an attempt to reduce sex discrimination at work.
According to a report in today's Scotsman, the guide will shortly be introduced by the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) Scotland and will be handed out to women when they attend hospital for their 12-week scan. It aims to protect women from unfair treatment, such as dismissal because of pregnancy. It will also explain that employers must conduct a risk assessment to protect a woman and her unborn child while at work.
The EOC is working with the Royal College of Midwives to make sure the guidance is distributed to those affected.
The Commission believes that many women do not know their rights, and that many bosses continue to break the law by sacking or demoting pregnant women and not allowing time off for antenatal appointments.