Q. I have just discovered that I am pregnant and would like to know what rights I have to take time off work for antenatal care?
A. All pregnant employees are entitled to reasonable time off with pay during working hours to attend appointments for the purpose of receiving ante-natal care. This would include relaxation and parentcraft classes, provided that these are advised by a registered doctor, midwife or nurse and the classes in question were educational rather than medical.
Q. How do I claim the time off and how much will I be paid whilst off?
A. There are no formalities and you should simply inform your employer of the date and time of the appointment. Ideally, as much notice as possible should be given. You are entitled to be paid at her normal hourly rate of pay during the period of time off for antenatal care.
Q. If my employer refuses what can I do?
A. You can claim compensation equivalent to the amount you were entitled to receive for taking the time off. Also, any refusal to allow an employee time off is also likely to constitute unlawful sex discrimination.
Should you have a queries regarding a legal matter please contact Keith Swan of Patterson, Glenton & Stracey Solicitors by email at ks@pgslaw.co.uk or by telephone on 0808 231 7043. Patterson, Glenton & Stracey have provided legal advice to the people of South Tyneside for over 125 years. For details of their full range of services and to view previous Gazette articles please log on to www.pgslaw.co.uk.
