Although the law offers protection against such discrimination, the firm continues to see numerous cases of women losing out on promotions, being overlooked for opportunities, or even being dismissed simply because they are pregnant or have recently returned from maternity leave.
Free legal consultations for employers and employees
Throughout March 2025, Martin Searle Solicitors - https://www.ms-solicitors.co.uk/contact-us/croydon-employment-and-community-care-solicitors/ - is hosting free, confidential telephone consultations every Tuesday and Thursday between 15:30 - 17:30.
These sessions are open to both employers and employees who need guidance on their legal obligations or rights in the workplace. Fiona Martin, Director and Head of Employment Law at the specialist Employment solicitors, has been at the forefront of Mind the Bump since it began over two decades ago.
“Even after 21 years of running this campaign,” she says, “we’re still hearing from women who’ve been made redundant or sidelined at work for no other reason than being pregnant or taking maternity leave. It’s astonishing to see how many businesses remain unaware of their legal responsibilities and how many workers feel unsure about where they stand.”
A survey conducted by the charity Pregnant Then Screwed reveals the ongoing extent of the problem: more than half of mothers report encountering prejudice related to pregnancy or maternity and one in five feels compelled to quit her job as a direct result. Such figures underline the continued need for accessible legal advice and public awareness.
Free online seminars on workplace rights
To offer additional guidance this year, Martin Searle Solicitors is also running a free online seminar focusing on the new Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act, introduced last year:
Thursday, 27 March (10:30 – 12:00): A seminar for advisers and trade union representatives featuring practical insights into assisting workers who experience discrimination.
Anyone wishing to attend the seminar or use the free advice helpline is encouraged to contact the Employment Law team at Martin Searle Solicitors.
By educating employers and empowering employees, the campaign hopes to end outdated, unfair practices and foster work environments that value and support pregnant women and new mothers rather than marginalising them.
You can learn more about Martin Searle Solicitors’ Mind The Bump campaign here - https://www.ms-solicitors.co.uk/mind-the-bump/