MATERNITY and parental leave rights “exist more on paper than in practice,” the TUC women’s conference in Bournemouth heard today. 

Catherine McKenna of Unison said that maternity rights are “not a luxury” but a “fundamental part of gender equality.”

“Yet, for far too many women in this country, especially those in low-paid, part-time or insecure work, these rights exist more on paper than in practice,” she told delegates.

“Every year, thousands of people have their pregnancy not with joy, but also fear they won’t be able to afford [leave] and that their job might not be there when they return. 

“This is not just a financial issue, it’s an equality issue, and it’s a health and well-being issue, and it’s also a workplace justice issue.”

Ms McKenna warned that inadequate maternity provisions “force many mothers back into work long before they’re ready,” and “puts pressure on families already stretched to the limit,” deepening gender inequality “that unions like ours fight every day.”

“Better maternity provision is not optional if we are serious about creating inclusive, equitable workplaces and a society where women are valued, not penalised before becoming mothers,” she said.