Call for evidence – student pregnancy

Advance HE is collecting short case studies describing the experiences of students who are, or have been, pregnant while studying at a UK higher education provider, or Scottish college.

For example we are interested in:

  • The information, advice and guidance provided by your university or college.
  • How you experienced relevant policies and regulations.
  • How your pregnancy impacted on your learning, attainment, progression or sense of belonging.
  • The types of support you received or would have liked to have received

We also welcome case studies from members of staff who have supported a student through pregnancy and/or maternity, if those case studies do not in any way identify the student.

We welcome information about a wide range of experiences, including from undergraduate and postgraduate students, UK and international students, and students with experience of any other protected characteristics (including age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation), disadvantaged backgrounds or specific needs (for example, caring responsibilities, care-experienced, or estranged students).

Advance HE is not a compliance or regulatory body, nor a campaigning body. We are unfortunately unable to offer either additional individual advice to students, or take direct action on their behalf. Students wishing for additional support or advice on their rights under equality legislation may wish to see EHRC guidance (www.equalityhumanrights.com) or to contact the Equality Advisory and Support Services helpline if required (www.equalityadvisoryservice.com). Students wishing for other forms of support during their pregnancy are advised to seek guidance from their student support services, or students unions in the first instance.

We do have general information available about student pregnancy and parenting, which includes our 2010 guidance to institutions: you can find this information here