6 ways to support pregnant employees in the workplace

Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster for any parent-to-be. So many symptoms to manage, appointments to keep and plans to make. So when an employee announces their pregnancy, it is important that employers not only think carefully about how they can best fulfil their legal obligations, but also how they can provide practical and emotional support to help create a more supportive working environment and more inclusive culture. The Occupational Health experts at YourGP suggest six ways you can do just that.

1. Start by conducting a risk assessment

Think carefully about your employee’s everyday duties. If their contracts involve long working hours or they are required to stand or sit for long periods of time without adequate breaks, this will need to be reviewed. Also consider any exposure to toxic substances, heavy lifting or carrying.

Employers should also talk to the employee about any specific circumstances surrounding their pregnancy that could affect their work, and take into account any recommendations provided by their GP or midwife.

2. Make reasonable adjustments

To help ensure your employee is as safe and comfortable at work as possible, it may be necessary to make some adjustments to their working environment. Their workstation may need to be moved so they have better access to toilets or the staff kitchen, for example. Or it may simply need to be updated with a new ergonomic chair. Also think about the room temperature and whether any changes could be made to the dress code to make the employee feel more comfortable.

3. Train your team

Training should be provided to management so they can anticipate the changing needs of the employee, prepare for them and accommodate them as best they can.

4. Be flexible

Your employee will likely need to take time off work to attend medical and antenatal appointments. These appointments are important so always accommodate these times, and remember that by rights this is paid time off.

If possible, try to be flexible with regards to working hours too and allow them to work remotely to reduce commuting stress if this is proving to be an issue. If they continue to work in the office, you may need to consider offering more frequent breaks.

5. Communicate openly and regularly

Organise regular one-to-ones with the employee throughout their pregnancy to ensure their needs are being met. Remember, every employee is different and every pregnancy is different, plus needs change throughout pregnancy.

Ensure your employee is also fully aware of what will happen next, including all the details of your company’s maternity leave, the length, pay and benefits, as well as options for shared parental leave and pay.

6. Remember their rights

It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of their pregnancy, and all employees in the UK are protected by the Equality Act 2010 and Pregnancy Discrimination Acts. Ensure you are doing all you can to provide equitable treatment and avoid workplace bias.

Speak to the Occupational Health experts

If you would like more information about how the Occupational Health experts at YourGP could support you and your employees, call us on 0131 225 5656 or email occhealth@your.gp and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you and your work schedule.