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ARTICLE · 27 JUNE 2024

Am I Protected From Redundancy While Pregnant?

WSP Solicitors
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From April 6, 2024, maternity redundancy protection extends from pregnancy notification until 18 months post-birth, including provisions for stillbirth, miscarriage, adoption, and shared parental leave. Employers must offer suitable alternative roles or risk unfair dismissal claims.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
WSP Solicitors
WSP Solicitors

Pregnant women who informed their employer of their pregnancy had some protection if their job was at risk of redundancy but only whilst they were on maternity leave. The protection ended once returned to work and their role could be made redundant. However, under the Employment Rights Act 1996 a suitable alternative role had to be offered to a pregnant woman if there is one available.

What are the changes to maternity protection in 2024?

On 6th April 2024 the protected redundancy period was extended beyond the end of the maternity leave. For pregnant women, this meant they were protected from when they informed their employer they were pregnant until 18 months after the birth of their baby. If they do not inform their employer of the exact date, then the protected period ends 18 months after the expected week of childbirth.

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