Pregnancy and Parenting at work with Tommy’s
Tommy's is the leading charity that exists to stop the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and make pregnancy and birth safe - for everyone.
Half (50%) of adults in UK have either experienced pregnancy or baby loss themselves or know someone who has.
The persisting stigma around baby loss in our society can leave those impacted feeling isolated in their grief. Though the conversation is gaining momentum, there is still a long way to go with breaking the silence, especially in the workplace.
With no statutory leave entitlement for a loss before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it is incredibly difficult for employees to access the time they need to heal and grieve. A loss at any time during pregnancy can be devastating, however a supportive, understanding workplace can make all the difference.
Creating real cultural change in the workplace takes time and it can be overwhelming to know where to start or where the focus should be.
Join us, Pro-Manchester, and our expert panel from Tommy's, the pregnancy and baby charity as they discuss the complexities of pregnancy and parenting in the workplace sharing advice and guidance with you that you can take straight back into your organisation.
No matter where your organisation is with their work in this space, you will leave with increased understanding of how to provide the best level of support for pregnant employees and their partners no matter their journey to parenthood.
About the Speakers:
Dr Krystal Wilkinson is an Associate Professor in Human Resource Management, based at the Centre for Decent Work and Productivity at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research focuses on the work-life interface, women’s health, mental health and wellbeing at work. Current and recent research projects have focused on solo-living staff; those navigating complex fertility journeys (including fertility tests, fertility treatment, pregnancy loss and involuntary childlessness); maternity management; mental health in pregnancy and post-birth; women’s reproductive health including menstruation, menstrual health conditions and menopause; and mental health in women in STEM professions. She has published in leading academic journals, featured in various media outlets and trade press (including BBC Woman’s Hour, BBC News, the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times and People Management magazine), and is lead editor of the 2024 book: Work-Life Inclusion: Broadening perspectives across the life-course. Krystal is passionate about knowledge exchange and is working with various stakeholders to raise awareness and create resources, including the CIPD, national charities, campaign groups and employers. Prior to working in academia, Krystal held operational Human Resource Management roles in different industries, including construction, retail and hospitality. She is a Chartered Member of the CIPD and the first Ambassador for the Maternal Mental Health Alliance.
Laura Tracey is an Employment Partner at Freeths based in the Manchester office. Laura has 17 years’ experience advising on all areas of employment law, supporting employers of all sizes, including many national and international operators, and household names throughout the UK. Laura supports employers on the legal issues arising from pregnancy loss, including advising on policies relating to fertility and parental leave. Laura is also passionate about supporting employers on implementing their equality, diversity and inclusion strategies and advises on women’s rights in the workplace.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
