News

23/04/2020

Michael Ford QC contributes towards legal advice on pregnant women’s rights during the Covid-19 pandemic – Maternity Action

News

Maternity Action obtained formal legal advice from Michael Ford QC, Old Square Chambers, and Karon Monaghan QC, Matrix Chambers, about the treatment of pregnant women under the Statutory Sick Pay regulations and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

Since the start of the pandemic Maternity Action have had many distressed calls to their Maternity Rights Advice Line from pregnant women who have been sent home on unpaid leave or Statutory Sick Pay. Maternity Action sought advice on the legal basis for paying Statutory Sick Pay and whether the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (which enables employers to furlough employees if their businesses are severely affected by coronavirus) prevents a person on Statutory Sick Pay from being placed on furlough.

For more information, please visit the Maternity Action website.