In this episode we look at the role of the union in the annual TUC’s Women’s Conference held recently. We ask what is the importance of the Conference? And how does it contribute to the drive for greater inclusivity and equality within the POA?

The episode also talks about the campaign for greater recognition of fertility and baby death issues. You can get advice and support from Tommy’s, a charity that offers support to all women and couples through baby loss and fertility issues with expert midwives as well as an online community: https://www.tommys.org/about-us/contact-us?msclkid=822cb93753ab10012421df095be01159.

Additionally there are two cross government and civil service networks: https://khub.net/group/cross-government-working-groups-fertility-at-work-and-pregnancy-loss-and-death-of-a-baby

The Civil Service Infertility Support Community is open to all colleagues who are dealing with infertility or undergoing fertility treatment, regardless of their journey stage or outcome. The group offers a confidential, safe space for colleagues to share their experiences and to hear from others on a similar journey. The community meets monthly, via Teams, usually the second Thursday of the month.

Colleagues can join via Teams or by dialling in anonymously and are invited to share only what they are comfortable sharing. This can include just listening. This group is open to all people who are going through or have experienced fertility treatment, including partners. Contact Heather Wareing (heather.wareing@hmrc.gov.uk) for more information.

Colleagues can also access a support conversation via your manager or through EAP support services on 0800 019 8988.

One of the POA’s delegates to the conference, Alice Lee, is also happy to share her experiences, as described in the podcast. She can be contacted through Jackie Marshall and Sarah Rigby as the NEC leads for this area of work, or directly at alice.lee@justice.gov.uk.

Working with and for members with disabilities