Maternity

12 Months of 2023: August

In August, the World Health Organization published guidance on breastfeeding at work, Wilko went into administration and return to office mandates were found to be largely unsuccessful.

How employers can go further to support employees after childbirth

Traditionally, baby bonding leave consists of time and money. The amount of time and money depends on the company policy of course and employers have been praised when they increase these.

Breastfeeding at work recommendations published by WHO

UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have issued a joint statement emphasising the need for greater breastfeeding support at work during World Breastfeeding Week (1-7 August 2023).

Horseback maternity meeting costs employer at tribunal

A groom has won a maternity discrimination suit against her employer, an Epsom Derby-winning stables, after one of her managers refused to dismount during a meeting about her return to work.

Childcare staffing crisis demands flexibility from employers

A staffing crisis in UK nurseries and spiralling costs of childcare has meant half (51%) of parents have been unable to meet their summer childcare needs.

Breastfeeding for working parents low on employers' support list

New parents are increasingly getting most of the support they need from employers, but support for breastfeeding is still low on the priority list.

Adoption and surrogacy – What HR needs to know

Adoption and surrogacy rates in the UK are on the rise – in the year ending March 2020, there were 3,440 adoptions and 413 parental orders following a surrogacy arrangement.

TikTok boss slammed for criticising maternity leave

News that a senior TikTok boss has reportedly told London staff he doesn't think companies should offer paid maternity leave has been universally condemned as out of touch and even “dangerous.”

HSE introduces risk assessments for pregnant workers

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has updated its guidance for employers of pregnant women or new mothers.

Organisations urged to sign Pregnancy Loss Pledge

Half of respondents to a Miscarriage Association survey said they felt they had to return to work before they were ready, with many not knowing or being told about their right to pregnancy-related...

Over half of UK employers now provide enhanced maternity and paternity pay

Nearly two thirds (63.5%) of businesses offer maternity pay above the statuary minimum in the UK, and three-fifths (60.8%) offer enhanced paternity pay.

UK's top family-friendly employers named for 2020

Working Families has announced its annual list of family-friendly employers in the UK.