Purpose of Report
To consider the approval of a proposed of a Miscarriage and Stillbirth Policy.
To consider an update to the Maternity/Paternity/Adoption Leave Policy to become a Foster Friendly Employer.
Decision
(1) That the introduction of the Miscarriage and Stillbirth Policy be approved.
(2) That the proposed changes to the Maternity/ Paternity/ Adoption Leave policy in terms of becoming a foster friendly employer be approved.
Alternative Options Considered and Rejected
None.
Reasons for the Decision
The Miscarriage and Stillbirth Policy set out the rights of employees affected by a miscarriage or stillbirth and would explain the emotional and practical support that the Council could provide as an employer. This policy recognised that the effects of a miscarriage or stillbirth could be extremely distressing and that many employees would regard a miscarriage as the loss of a baby, regardless of how early in pregnancy it had occurred. Furthermore, a miscarriage or stillbirth could have significant physical and emotional consequences, which may affect an employee's attendance or performance at work.
In order to become a Foster Friendly Employer, it was agreed to insert a new section into the Council’s Maternity/Paternity/Adoption Leave Policy, which would entitle all employees who were foster carers to an additional five days of paid annual leave to support foster carers with settling in a new child, training courses, support groups, meetings and emergencies. In addition the Council would promote Foster Care Fortnight as part of the annual campaign.