Professor Ilaria Boncori from the University of Essex is urging employers to provide better support for individuals dealing with early pregnancy endings. Her call to action comes during Baby Loss Awareness Week and is based on a new report that she and her colleagues from various universities have completed.
The study sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals who experience early pregnancy endings before the 24-week gestation period. Professor Boncori emphasized the importance of understanding this common workplace experience and the need for targeted support.
According to the report, which gathered insights from over 200 respondents, there are four main challenges identified: lack of awareness, concerns about disclosure, variable reactions and support, and differences in entitlements. These findings underscore the troubling lack of workplace support for individuals going through early pregnancy endings.
Professor Boncori highlighted the significance of organizational policies, training, and support for all types of pregnancy endings, including miscarriage, termination, molar, and ectopic pregnancies. She noted that while some employers and managers show compassion and understanding, many are ill-equipped to handle such situations appropriately. This often leaves affected individuals to cope with their grief and recovery on their own, without formal support from their workplaces.
In response to these findings, the research team has put forth ten best practice principles to help support individuals in the workplace who experience early pregnancy endings more effectively. These recommendations aim to equip employers with the tools and knowledge needed to provide compassionate and appropriate support to their employees during such challenging times.
By implementing these best practices, employers can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment for individuals dealing with early pregnancy endings. It is crucial for companies to listen to the research findings and take proactive steps to improve their support systems for employees facing such difficult circumstances.
