6. Resources on new and expectant mothers
Legislation
Useful links
- Commission Guidelines 2000
On the guidelines on the assessment of the chemical, physical and biological agents and industrial processes considered hazardous for the safety or health of pregnant workers and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding (Council Directive 92/85/EEC). - Direct Gov
Direct Gov provides more details about employment relations, including maternity and paternity rights, leave and work life balance - Equalities Act - Codes of Practice on Employment
The Equalities Act 2010 lists pregnancy and maternity as a protected characteristic. It is unlawful for an employer to subject a woman to unfavourable treatment during the ‘protected period’ as defined by the Act. Further information on pregnancy and maternity discrimination can be found in the Code of Practice on Employment. - Acas
Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) offers free, confidential and impartial advice on all employment rights issues. They also published the guide: Accommodating breastfeeding employees in the workplace. - NHS
The NHS website offers advice on maternity rights related to healthcare and your job. - Breastfeeding and Work
This leaflet by the Department for Health explains how you can breastfeed and work. Many working women find ways to continue breastfeeding their baby and employers have certain obligations towards breastfeeding women. - ACAS - Accommodating breastfeeding employees in the workplace guide.