Pregnancy and coronovirus

seeking_advice2020

Hello 

If you are reading this then thank you 😊 

I am currently 17 weeks pregnant and have suffered from recurrent miscarriage in the past. I am high risk and under a consultant. After a visit to the hospital this week I was given a doctors note due to working in an educational setting where students are not adhering to wearing a mask or social distancing. My employer has said that the sick note is not legal and as a pregnant employee I’m at no greater risk than anyone else. 

To date I’ve had no risk assessment completed despite mentioning it several times.

Ive read a lot online about teachers being supported to work from home when pregnant and particularly after 28 weeks but can find nothing in government guidance about this. It’s perhaps something at the discretion of individual schools? 

I love my job however I do not want to put myself or my unborn baby at any risk and my husband is understandably very concerned my employer is trying to disagree with a doctors advice. 

Is anyone able to clarify anything about my situation? 

Thank you so much for reading and any replies in advance

ToxicWomble

Not sure about the pregnancy bit but why are the students not adhering to mask wearing and social distancing - that needs tackling and enforcing
As to the issues relating to your pregnancy - try speaking to your union. They will be able to give much better advice and support

bradders1983

Students dont have to wear masks in class surely? 

elsien

Your employer is correct in that at the moment there is no evidence to show that pregnant women In general are more at risk from Covid (unlike previous viruses). Putting them as at moderate risk is a precaution until more information is known.

You may need to evidence that your individual circumstances put you at higher risk. The employer does not have to accept the note but would be silly not to do so without further checks/risk assessment. Do they have an occupational health service? 

I would second contacting your union. 

CocoM2020

What do you mean by educational setting? How old are the students in your school? 

luvchocolate

Anyone pregnant should have had a risk assessment done pre Covid...so it's a real worry you've not had one now

ceb1995

There's more concern in the 3rd trimester that it can be a risk but there's nothing in the guidelines to say you have to work from home just that it is encouraged if possible, what your maternity pay situation as you can take that from 29 weeks?