Managing Maternity Fairly and Productively

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Multiple policy objectives depend on creating a fair and operational social contract between the small employer, family and state in managing the disruption to paid work (economic production) caused by employee pregnancy and maternity (social reproduction).An Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) investigation into pregnancy discrimination suggests this social contract is undermined in the UK by ignorance and dispute, causing high rates of non-compliance in small businesses. The EOC recommended that small employers need more support to manage maternity fairly and productively. In this research note we present analysis of the type of support development required.We draw on an audit of existing support and analysis of small employer behaviour and needs to identify failure in existing provision and to present detailed policy recommendations. Further research directions are also identified.