8 months pregnant and fired

Posted by Babeez (420 days ago)

Hi all,

Just wondering if anyone might have any practical advice for my friend who works in the UK. She is 8 months pregnant and has been at her job (in a bank) for 2 years. Last week, she was told that her position was no longer needed in the company and they gave her one month's notice. She had never received complaints from her bosses and had no idea this was coming. She will now lose her maternity leave. Can she challenge her bosses? Any idea where to start? Any advice would be much appreciated.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by anonymouse (420 days ago)

try:

http://www.eoc.org.uk/Default.aspx?page=15308

or

http://www.employment-solicitors.co.uk

I don't think there is an outright prohibition on dismissal as there is in HK (except for summary dismissal, of course), but since she's been employed for over 2 years, she can bring an unfair dismissal claim.

The employer needs to show that there was a "fair" reason (redundancy is considered a fair reason, but I believe they need to demonstrate that it's a genuine redundancy). The employer also has to follow a fair procedure.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Babeez (420 days ago)

Thank you so much for your reply. I will pass on this information to my friend.

(I am based in Hong Kong)