Question reference: S5W-31822
- Asked by: Stuart McMillan, MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 14 September 2020
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Current status: Answered by John Swinney on 24 September 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on pregnant teachers working in schools after 28 weeks.
Answer
The SG has published detailed guidance on the safe return to school. This is designed to safeguard the wellbeing of children, young people and staff. Whilst it sets out general guidance for all those involved in schools settings, it also recognises the importance in some circumstances of risk assessments and conversations between individuals and their healthcare professionals.
There is no suggestion that pregnant women are more susceptible to the virus than the general population as a result of their pregnancy, or are more likely to be ill. It is expected the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms. Guidance for pregnant women and their employers advises that women should discuss their return to work with their employers and a risk assessment should be undertaken to ensure appropriate measures are in place to ensure safety. The Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (RCOG) and The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) have provided more information for both employers and pregnant women including specific advice for women who are
28 weeks pregnant and beyond. https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/guidelines/2020-09-10-occupational-health-statement-rcog-rcm-fom.pdf