Pregnant - starting new job

P

Peachie

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I know this info is readily available at my workplace but i'm not happy with the level of confidentiality!
I have a job interview for a more senior position within the public sector next week. I'm 6 weeks pregnant. i'm pretty sure i don't have to let the interview panel know that i'm pregnant. what about if i got offered the job? also if i do get offered the job and say start in march (give 2 months notice in current job....my contract says 1 but i wouldn't like to leave colleagues with such little notice considering i prob won't be replaced) would there be any prob with going on mat leave in july (ie within probation period - i think there is standard 6 month prob in public sector).
Thanks!
 
They cannot discriminate against you as a result of your pregnancy. I would say nothing until you have accepted the job (if you get it) and started in your new position. They'll survive (albeit with some difficulties) in your absence.
 
you will be required to do a medical most likely and a pregnancy test is part of that however they cannot not offer you the job on that basis (I know that because at my medical I was told after the urine test "well you're not pregnant anyway!"). 1 year probabtion is standard in public sector. I had been promoted in the public sector and had started a new position and probabtion while pregnant. Probation is postponed until you return from maternity leave.
 
Go for the job - I wouldn't worry about the timing of your leave at this stage. They can't discriminate on those grounds (although in practice they frequently do, so don't mention anything at this stage).

Not sure if a pregnancy test is a standard part of all medicals. I don't remember it being part of the standard questionnaire my GP filled in in my last two jobs.

In any case, the medical would come in after a job offer, not before.
 
Not to put a negative slant but at 6 weeks things are still very early so it would be practical not to mention it at interview stage. Best of luck on both fronts.
 
I'd agree with MrMan. If you want the job, give it your best shot and say nothing.

You mentioned that you are only obliged to give 1 months notice at your current job, but would like to stay 2. All things considered, would it not be better just to give the 1 month and get started in the new job asap so as to minimise any potential issues. Once you're on board and working, they cant discriminate because of your pregnancy. Your danger may be if some medical issue pops up in the meantime which means you are not able to start on the expected date - this would be a grey area legally as you may not be considered an employee until you take up the position.
 
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