Co-op introduces pregnancy loss policy
Co-op is to offer staff who have experienced pregnancy loss flexible paid leave and time off for medical appointments as part of a package to support them.
The retailer’s dedicated pregnancy loss policy aims to help staff through the bereavement and grief of the loss whether it be through miscarriage, stillbirth, embryo transfer loss, molar pregnancy or termination of pregnancy. Furthermore, the policy will support both parents who have been affected, whether it happens directly to them, their partner or their baby’s surrogate mother.
Co-op is also equipping managers with a guide on how to provide appropriate practical and emotional support to those going through loss.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op chief financial officer and chief executive of Life Services, said: “Losing a baby at any stage in a pregnancy is a devastating experience. The decision to discuss that with your employer is an incredibly difficult and personal one. Having lost our eldest daughter and having suffered several miscarriages myself and with our surrogate I understand just how difficult it is to navigate your personal and professional life during such heartbreak.
“By creating a supportive environment companies can go a long way in easing the stress that people in this situation often feel. I am very proud that the Co-op is recognising and supporting our colleagues at a time when they need it most.”
