Stronger job protection for pregnant staff and new parents is on the way
From October 2027, employers will have to show they looked at every reasonable alternative before dismissing.
The government has confirmed tougher protection against unfair dismissal for pregnant women and new parents, announced on 22 October. It will apply from October 2027.
What changes At the moment, a tribunal asks whether a dismissal fell within what a reasonable employer might do. For pregnant staff and new parents, that becomes a stricter test: the employer must show dismissal was proportionate and that they considered reasonable alternatives first, such as support, training or a different role.
Who it covers - Anyone who has told their employer they are pregnant - People on maternity or adoption leave, and for six months after - People on shared parental, neonatal care or bereaved partner's paternity leave
The government also plans rules limiting changes to pay and shift patterns for the same groups. For everyone else, the existing test stays.
On your shift: if someone in your team tells you they are pregnant, pass it to your manager straight away so the right support is set up. Keep rota changes for that person fair and talked through, and if you are the one expecting, you can ask HR how the new rules apply to you.
Source: GOV.UK (opens in a new tab)
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