Understanding the experience of early pregnancy endings as a workplace issue

Report of the Supporting Early Pregnancy Endings in the Workplace project. Pregnancy is a protected characteristic under the UK's Equality Act (2010). Yet the report notes that in most workplaces, there is no entitlement to pregnancy-specific leave for employees who experience early pregnancy endings (including miscarriages, abortions, terminations, molar and ectopic pregnancies) before 24 weeks’ gestation. Although early pregnancy endings are common, a lack of awareness, personalised support, compassion, policies and/or guidance, and training can result in workers suffering physically, psychologically, emotionally, and financially, often in silence. The report highlights four challenges: lack of awareness, concerns about disclosure, variable reactions and support, and differences in entitlements. The team have recommended ten best practice principles to support individuals in the workplace who experience early pregnancy endings more effectively.