The right of partners to attend prenatal appointments Scotland solicitor
Agency workers and pregnant employees are entitled to antenatal appointments. The ability for qualified workers and employees to accompany expectant mothers to prenatal checkups was expanded in October 2014.
This right applies to:
- The father of a pregnant woman’s child;
- The spouse, civil partner, or partner of the pregnant woman;
- The intended parents in a surrogacy scenario (who satisfy certain requirements).
Those who qualify can take time off for a maximum of two visits, each lasting 6.5 hours. The time taken off to attend an appointment does not explicitly grant the right to compensation. But, an employer might decide to use its judgement, or there might be a legal requirement.
Will the partner’s ability to take time off work for prenatal checkups be contingent upon their employment for a predetermined amount of time?
It is significant to remember that employees have the “day one” right to unpaid time off to attend prenatal visits. Conversely, agency workers will need to meet a qualifying term requirement.
If an employer refuses to allow an employee to attend prenatal appointments, the employee may be able to file a claim in the Employment Tribunal.
Does the partner need to present any proof?
If an employer so desires, they may request a signed statement that states:
- That the worker has the necessary connection to a woman who is pregnant or the child she expects;
- That the worker’s leave of absence is being used to accompany a pregnant patient to an antenatal checkup;
- That a registered nurse, registered midwife, or registered medical professional advised scheduling the visit; and/or
- The appointment’s time and date.
