Pay & Benefits · UK 2026

Should I tell a recruiter I'm pregnant during the interview process?

By Alex · 12-year UK recruiter · Updated April 2026

What the law says. UK Equality Act 2010 protects pregnant candidates from discrimination at all stages of the recruitment process. Employers can't ask about pregnancy in interviews. Employers can't withdraw offers based on pregnancy disclosure. Employers can't change terms based on pregnancy disclosure.

What happens in practice. Despite the law, pregnancy bias exists in UK hiring. Candidates who disclose during the interview process sometimes notice changes in employer enthusiasm. Candidates who disclose post-offer report fewer issues. Candidates who disclose after probation report least issues.

When to disclose. Most UK candidates disclose: never during the interview process; sometimes between offer and start date (entitles you to begin maternity leave planning); always before maternity leave starts (legally required). The timing is your choice; UK law protects you regardless.

What changes after disclosure. The employer must follow UK maternity rights — 52 weeks' leave, Statutory Maternity Pay, KIT days, return-to-work rights. Some employers offer enhanced maternity pay, often 6 months full pay; check your contract or ask HR.

If you experience discrimination. Document specific incidents (date, who, what was said). Raise a formal grievance. Take Acas advice. The candidates who successfully challenge pregnancy discrimination usually do so via Employment Tribunal — the time limit is 3 months less 1 day from the incident.

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