TUC Congress in Brighton calls for paid leave after miscarriage

At the TUC Congress in Brighton, the NASUWT teachers' union advocated for the introduction of paid leave for workers who experience a miscarriage. Currently, there is no statutory entitlement for individuals who miscarry before the 24-week mark, leaving many to rely on their employer's discretion for time off. This situation affects a significant number of workers, with estimates suggesting that around one in five pregnancies in the UK ends in miscarriage, impacting tens of thousands annually. Dr. Patrick Roach, the general secretary of NASUWT, emphasized the emotional and physical toll that miscarriage can take on individuals. He argued that the absence of paid leave compounds the grief experienced by those affected, as they often face financial concerns when seeking time off. The union's call for legislative change aims to ensure that workers do not have to navigate the difficult process of requesting time off during such a challenging period. The previous government did not address this issue, prompting the NASUWT to urge the new government to take action. The union believes that providing paid leave for miscarriage is essential for supporting grieving workers and fostering a compassionate society. By including miscarriage under statutory maternity, paternity, and parental bereavement rights, the NASUWT aims to create a more supportive work environment for those affected by this loss. In conclusion, the push for paid leave reflects a growing recognition of the need for better support systems for workers experiencing miscarriage. The NASUWT's advocacy at the TUC Congress highlights the importance of legislative change to protect the rights and well-being of all workers in the UK.