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Pregnancy and Maternity

Pregnancy and Maternity are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

Definitions: Pregnancy is the condition of being pregnant.  Maternity refers to the period of 26 weeks after the birth, which reflects the period of a woman's ordinary maternity leave entitlement in the employment context. (Equality and Human Rights Commission 2010).

Employment: In the workplace a woman is protected against discrimination on the grounds of pregnancy and maternity during the period of her pregnancy and any statutory maternity leave to which she is entitled. During this period, pregnancy and maternity discrimination cannot be treated as sex discrimination. (ACAS Guidance). Special rules apply to sickness absence which is related to a woman’s pregnancy or to her having given birth. For further information see guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission 2010).

Students: The Equality Act introduces a new protection from discrimination for students during pregnancy and maternity by extending the protection that exists for women in employment to higher education. From 1 October 2010, a student who is pregnant, or has given birth within the last 26 weeks, is now explicitly protected from unfavourable treatment. For further information see guidance from the Equality Challenge Unit.

For a summary of the key legislation, see the Equality Challenge Unit guidance: Pregnancy and Maternity: key legislation.

The University of York's work on equality in relation to pregnancy and maternity

The University is committed to providing an environment where members of its community are supported and treated fairly and with dignity and respect during pregnancy and maternity and while breastfeeding.

HR policies in support of pregnancy and maternity: A range of policies in support of maternity and maternity support leave have been developed along with policies in support of parents and carers.

Support for students: A range of support for students with children is provided by the University including accommodation, financial support and childcare. Further support is provided by the Graduate Students Association and University of York Student Family Network.

Breastfeeding

A woman who is breastfeeding is now explicitly protected from unfavourable treatment in the areas of education and provision of services. For further information see: Equality Challenge Unit 2010.

Breastfeeding on campus: in response to an identified need, two spaces on campus have been allocated for staff or students wishing to breastfeed or express milk in private. On the Heslington West campus, a room is available between 9am and 4pm in the Student Services area of the Department of Health Sciences. Contact Student Services (Health Sciences) on extension 1321. On the Heslington East campus, a baby changing room which can also be used for breastfeeding or expressing milk is located on the ground floor of the Theatre, Film and Television building.

What can I do to promote equality at the University?

• Help to ensure that all staff and students are aware of the guidance on this web page and that discrimination is unacceptable and unlawful

• Understand and adhere to the University’s Equality Policies

• Show respect for others within the University

• Help to eliminate harassment and report it immediately

• Play your part in promoting a culture of dignity and respect

• Contact the Equality and Diversity Office to arrange for the Equality and Diversity Roadshow to be displayed in your department.

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