Rights for pregnant workers and new mothers

On 22 October 2026, the UK government published its response to the consultation on enhanced dismissal protection for pregnant women and new mothers (those who had given birth in the last 18 months). The consultation ran from 23 October 2025 to 15 January 2026.  Its purpose was to determine how stronger protection should work in…

The Department for Business and Trade has launched a consultation under the “Make Work Pay” initiative, seeking views on proposed legislation to strengthen dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers. The consultation is open until 15 January 2026, and forms part of the wider Employment Rights Bill currently progressing through Parliament.

Overview of…