NEW mums and pregnant women are facing discrimination at work, a survey has revealed.

New research by the Equality and Human Rights Commission claims that more than 54,000 women a year are losing their jobs after having a baby.

Trained employment rights advisers at Halton Citizens Advice Bureau gave advice on 925 queries last year relating to employment law.

The charity fears this may only be the tip of the iceberg and is urging women to seek help if they feel they are being unfairly treated.

Hitesh Patel, chief executive of Halton CAB, said: “It’s really sad in this day and age that we are still coming across women who are being discriminated against because they are pregnant.

“It is absolutely shocking to hear about the way some women are being treated.

“You shouldn’t be penalised for having a child.”

Halton CAB recently helped a pregnant woman who had her hours cut.

Hitesh said: “We negotiated with her employer to protect her terms and conditions.

“If this fails, we can also give advice on bringing a case to tribunal.”

However, since the Government introduced fees of between £160-250 to lodge a claim and £250-950 to have a hearing, he said, tribunal cases have plummeted by more than 60 per cent.

He added: “Claimants on low incomes with little savings can apply to have fees waived or reduced.

“If anyone feels they or their partner has been unfairly treated because they are pregnant we urge them to use our free and confidential advice service.

“We have an excellent team of advisors who can help explain what your legal rights are.”

To contact Halton CAB call 0344 477 2121 or visit haltoncab.org.uk