Voluntary
Step 1 – Disclosure
The student informs the University of their pregnancy.
Disclosure will be handled sensitively and confidentially.
Step 2 – Pregnancy Support Meeting
The student will normally be offered a Pregnancy Support Meeting.
This meeting explores:
- the student's circumstances;
- study requirements;
- placement considerations;
- support needs;
- health and safety issues;
- possible adjustments.
Step 3 – Pregnancy Support Plan
Where appropriate, a Pregnancy Support Plan will be developed.
The plan may include:
- academic arrangements;
- placement arrangements;
- wellbeing support;
- attendance modifications;
- review dates;
- postpartum planning.
Step 4 – Risk Assessment (Where Required)
Where pregnancy interacts with:
- laboratories;
- clinical environments;
- physical activities;
- travel requirements;
- placement settings;
the University may undertake a structured Equality and Risk Assessment.
The purpose is to identify ways to reduce risk and support participation.
The identification of risk does not automatically mean withdrawal from study.
Step 5 – Ongoing Review
Support plans can be reviewed as circumstances change.
Pregnancy, health advice and personal circumstances may evolve during pregnancy and following childbirth.
Possible Outcomes
Most students continue studying with support.
Outcomes may include:
- adjustments;
- placement modifications;
- enhanced support;
- temporary changes to study arrangements;
- Voluntary Leave of Absence;
- postpartum support planning.