Discrimation at work due to pregnancy

An exit package is almost always offered when they know what they’re doing is wrong and want rid anyway. I’ve seen it happen all too many times. Once you take it you’re usually bound to an NDA and sign away your rights to ever go to tribunal.

Seek independent legal advice but in my experience.. take the package. A tribunal will take years and cost thousands if you stand a chance and hire legal representation to fight it. By the time you factor in time, legal representation and money you’re often better off with the payout. Their first offer is never their final offer so ensure whoever you get independent legal advice from has lots of experience in negotiating the best exit package.

You and your precious baby don’t need all that stress over a job. It’s a very shitty situation but ask yourself.. do you really want to work for a company with such a low moral compass? x

Are you part of a union? If you aren’t, have a look at joining one! They will panic, you can also look at raising a grievance (union is the best first option as they can help with the grievance)
This is clearly discrimination and they won’t get away with it, have you notified them formally before the meeting?
Keep notes of a timeline, I don’t know amounts but sounds like a classic case that would stand in court! Are you in probationary period?
Lots of things to consider but I’d definitely recommend getting representation, it’ll take away your stress. Get your maternity package, go back for the minimum period and find a new job 🥰

Call ACAS, or call your union. ACAS can help to understand the process and clarify position. Something similar happened to me during my pregnancy this time. I'm so sorry to hear you're going through it too. Please do complain and document everything. Also I know this is hard to look after your mental health too xx

Write everything down! And also take a peek at pregnant then screwed. Sorry you’re going through this!

Speak to ACAS for free legal advice surrounding employment

Speak to ACAS and get in touch with some solicitors to be able to evaluate your particular situation and what you’d get. A lot of them offer a free initial consultation. I was recently laid off and was only selected for the layoff because in the last 6 months I have returned from a year long maternity leave, had 2 miscarriages so I needed some sick time off and now pregnant again. It didn’t matter to them that I worked there 5 years and I was a really high performer this whole time. The solicitor advised me that what they offered me for severance is pretty close to the payout I could expect from tribunal, about 10-15k off so it’s up to me if the headache would be worth it or not. I decided not to pursue legal action as for me the extra money didn’t feel worth all the effort and my mental health

My friend has ACAS and a union to help with disability discrimination - she didn’t take an exit package that they offered went through with the grievance with HR not holding up her grievances even with the support of ACAS and her union. Ended up resigning with nothing.

I know it’s slightly different but I’d probably take the package and enjoy your time off with the baby - as above definitely negotiate the package x