Congress backed moves to better inform
women about their maternity rights amidst
concerns that many women returning from
maternity leave feel discriminated against
by employers and colleagues.
The STUC Women’s Committee will
also press the NHS to give women information
on their employment rights at their first
ante natal appointment, and will work
with the STUC Unions into Schools team
to improve awareness of maternity rights
amongst young people.
Supporting GMB Scotland’s motion,
UNISON’s Sam Macartney told delegates
maternity pay regulations were amended
by a European Court of justice Ruling
in 2005 yet most employers still calculate
maternity pay based on regulation before
this date.
Sam said, “UNISON has been encouraging
branches to write to employers reminding
them of the requirement to address this
issue under maternity rights and in line
with HMRC guidance.” This includes
a backdated entitlement which employers
must also calculate and pay.”
Sam highlighted that all trade unions
should be making members and employers
aware of this and he called on the STUC
to address this issue urgently.
