Employee rights during IVF

[mumma_in_the_making]

So I’m really lucky that my employer is being very understanding about my upcoming IVF treatment however, my husband’s employer is not. I don’t expect him to come to all of my appointments but there are some where I would like him there. Obviously there will be one where he’s definitely needed! His managers are giving him a hard time about missing work and are expecting him to make up any lost time. Has anyone else experienced this? It seems really unfair. I’ve been looking for any employment laws during fertility treatment but can’t find anything.

[Purpledoggy]

My understanding is that IVF appointments are treated legally as any other kind of medical appointment. It might be trickier if he is going with you for support only though, as it is not technically 'his' appointment. It might be worth a chat with ACAS as they are up on employement law and may be able to advise. xx

[DuckyBooks]

Take a look at the IVF Network as their mission is to create a more inclusive workforce or listen to the podcast the Big Fat Negative - they’ve done some episodes on HR.

Unfortunately from what I understand there are currently no employment laws protecting employees going through IVF.

Can your partner take a days holiday for egg collection? I know it is frustrating to use a days holiday, but will stop stress for you both.

[StarsAllAround]

Unfortunately there are no fertility treatment employee rights in law in the UK. If he is only attending the appointments to support you then it is down to his HR if he can take this time out or if he would have to pre book annual leave for the appointments. Any appointments where he would receiving treatment should be treated as a normal medical appointments as per his companys HR policy. So he would need to check his contract and speak to HR to find out what he is and isn't entitled to.

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi mumma_in_the_making. Have a look at “Fertility in the Workplace” on our website. Www.fertilitynetworkuk.org. Diane