Supporting the experience of early pregnancy endings in the workplace

This Knowledge Exchange event brings together the findings of two grant funded projects focusing on how people navigate the demands of work while experiencing the physical, emotional and practical realities of early pregnancy endings (including miscarriage, termination, ectopic and molar pregnancies, up to 24 weeks gestation). These are very common experiences in the workplace, and yet there is very little academic research in the area.

While there are the beginnings of workplace support for these experiences, like NHS recommended leave entitlements in the UK and legalised national policies in New Zealand, these are at an extremely early stage. Termination, except where it takes place because of foetal anomaly, is largely absent from these initiatives.

This in-person event led by Professor Ilaria Boncori (Essex Business School) will summarise the key findings stemming from our multi-university research collaborations on early pregnancy endings and data from survey responses and interviews. With examples of evidence-based best practice principles for organisational support, this evening session will also involve an interactive Q&A and the opportunity to network. Refreshments will be provided.

Who should attend

The event will be useful for any type of organisation, and in particular line managers, HR professionals and trade union representatives, as well as anyone who has been affected by an early pregnancy ending whilst in employment. Researchers in the relevant subject areas will also find it interesting.

Contact for further information: Prof Ilaria Boncori; email: iboncori@essex.ac.uk