Women will disproportionately benefit from new workers’ rights measures being introduced next month, according to research by the TUC which says approximately 4.7 million women are to benefit from stronger sick pay from April. The TUC also notes that over 830,000 low-paid women will gain access to statutory sick pay for the first time. TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: “For too long women have borne the brunt of a sick pay system that is not fit for purpose, and a culture of exploitative, insecure work . . . That’s why the Employment Rights Act is an important step forward for women at work.” A government spokesperson said: “The Employment Rights Act is a huge boost for women in the workplace – introducing enhanced protections for pregnant women and new mothers, menopause action plans for large employers and rights for parental leave from day one.”
