Pregnancy Discrimination Letter Template & Generator

If you need to challenge discrimination or unfair treatment because of pregnancy or maternity, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong pregnancy discrimination letter should include, plus a free tool to generate yours.

What this letter needs to cover

• State it is a formal grievance
• Describe the discriminatory treatment linked to pregnancy or maternity
• Reference the Equality Act 2010 and the specific protected characteristic of pregnancy and maternity
• Describe the impact
• State the desired outcome
• Request a formal meeting

Your protection during pregnancy and maternity

Pregnancy and maternity discrimination is treated as a distinct, specifically protected category under the Equality Act 2010 — you don't need a comparator to show you were treated less favourably than someone else, unlike some other discrimination claims. Unfavourable treatment because of pregnancy, pregnancy-related illness, or maternity leave is unlawful in its own right.

What to include before you send it

• A clear, factual account of the treatment you've experienced and when it occurred
• Confirmation of your pregnancy or maternity leave status at the relevant time
• Why you believe the treatment was connected to your pregnancy or maternity leave
• What outcome you're seeking

The protected period matters

Special protection applies during pregnancy and until the end of your maternity leave (the "protected period") — this includes enhanced redundancy protection, meaning you must be offered any suitable alternative role ahead of colleagues not on maternity leave if your role is at risk during this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this protection apply if I'm not yet on maternity leave?
Yes — protection begins from the point your employer knows you're pregnant, not just once maternity leave starts.

What if I was made redundant while on maternity leave?
This is an area of particularly strong protection — failing to offer you a suitable alternative role ahead of others can itself amount to unlawful discrimination and automatic unfair dismissal.

See our full letter template & generator library for related letters, or use our free checkers for guidance specific to your situation.