Pregnancy and maternity

Pregnancy is defined in the Equality Act 2010 as being pregnant or expecting a baby.

Maternity refers to the period after a birth. In employment it is linked to maternity leave, and maternity-related discrimination can occur if a woman is treated unfavourably because:

  • of her pregnancy
  • of pregnancy-related illness
  • she is on compulsory maternity leave (2 weeks or 4 weeks if she is working in a factory)
  • she is exercising her right to take ordinary or additional maternity leave

In a non-work context, protection against discrimination based on pregnancy or maternity applies up to twenty six weeks after a birth. It includes treating a woman unfavourably because:

  • of her pregnancy
  • she has given birth within the past 26 weeks and/or because she is breastfeeding

Further Information

Natalie Parkinson - Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer

Address: Brigade Headquarters, St Michael's St, Shrewsbury, SY1 2HJ.

Telephone: 01743 260 236

Email: natalie.parkinson@shropshirefire.gov.uk