Solihull Council has signed the Miscarriage Association’s pregnancy loss pledge in order to improve its support for affected council staff.
By signing, the council pledged its commitment to the standard set by the association. This includes encouraging a supportive work environment where staff feel able to discuss and disclose pregnancy and miscarriages without fear of being disadvantaged or discriminated against, encouraging line managers to access in-house or external guidance, and supporting employees back to work by being responsive to their needs and showing flexibility where possible.
The association has also recommended implementing pregnancy-related leave and a pregnancy loss policy or guidance, or ensuring that it is included in sickness, bereavement or other workplace policies, while being mindful of the needs of partners.
According to Solihull Council, it has created a supportive environment for those experiencing pregnancy loss at any stage by showing them flexibility when returning to work. It also put in place guidance that details the support on offer to employees if they experience a pregnancy loss and offers practical advice for line managers on how to support them.
Councillor Bob Sleigh, cabinet member for resources, said: “At Solihull Council we are committed to the health and wellbeing of our employees and to doing everything we can to support those affected by pregnancy loss.
"We are proud to have joined a growing list of signatories of the pregnancy loss pledge, to provide those members of staff who have unfortunately experienced pregnancy loss with the emotional and practical support they need.
“We understand that women who suffer miscarriages, and their partners, often require time off to recover. We hope no one at Solihull Council ever needs to access this support package but are immensely proud to have it in place if it is needed.”
