One in 10 women who experienced pregnancy loss while in employment left their job because they felt inadequately supported by their employer, according to research from pregnancy and baby charity Tommy’s.
The findings, published in the charity’s Bumped Out report, underline the growing need for employers to strengthen workplace policies, manager training and employee benefits when it comes to pregnancy, pregnancy loss and the transition back to work following maternity leave.
The survey of more than 1,000 people found almost one in three (29 per cent) women who experienced pregnancy or baby loss considered leaving their employer, while more than half (51 per cent) wanted adjustments to their workload following their loss. However, fewer than a quarter (24 per cent) said these adjustments were offered.
Across all respondents, just 3 per cent said their organisation offered training on pregnancy or baby loss, while almost one-third (31 per cent) believed their employer had no policies relevant to their circumstances.
The research also found support declined significantly after maternity leave. While 66 per cent felt well supported during pregnancy, this fell to 46 per cent after returning to work, with more than half (52 per cent) reporting a deterioration in their mental wellbeing.
Kath Abrahams, chief executive of Tommy’s, said employers needed to move beyond relying on individual managers’ goodwill.
“We need employers to recognise and address gaps in their approach to pregnancy and loss so that everyone can benefit from consistent, fit-for-purpose workplace support around one of life’s most defining moments,” she said.
The charity is urging employers to adopt clearer workplace policies, provide training for managers, offer flexible working arrangements and workload adjustments, and improve signposting to internal and external support services.