October 23rd 2025

By Ailsa Colquhoun

Government consults on pregnancy and new mother employment law reforms

Businesses and workers are being consulted on employment reforms, including bereavement leave and enhanced dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers.

Out for consultation is new legislation which will make it unlawful to dismiss pregnant women, those on maternity leave, and mothers returning to work for at least six months, except in specific circumstances. The consultation is part of the Government’s plan to Make Work Pay.

Bereavement leave for pregnancy loss before 24 weeks as well enhanced union protections are also discussed. Union protections include a new duty for workers to be informed by their employers of their right to join a trade union, as well as on the new framework that allows trade unions to request access to a workplace.

The consultation will be online