When I was a third-year student midwife, something I had dedicated years of hard work and passion to, I found myself in a devastating situation. Ironically, while studying to bring new life safely into the world, I experienced a high-risk pregnancy. Rather than finding support and understanding, the university failed to protect or conduct a basic risk assessment for me. The stress and lack of care were overwhelming, and tragically, my baby daughter died just 17 weeks into the pregnancy.

This traumatic experience was compounded by the university's refusal to accept responsibility, offering a paltry £550 as a distress payment for my unimaginable loss. To seek justice and accountability, I’ve already fought hard with the help of solicitors, but am now faced with the daunting need to raise £15,000 just to bring my case to court. This financial barrier is an added layer of unfairness, preventing many like myself from holding academic institutions accountable.

This is not just about my family. My story is all too familiar for many pregnant students who face discrimination and negligence from universities across the UK. Each of them deserves the right to continue their education without the fear of discrimination or financial ruin if they seek justice.

Universities must create a supportive environment for pregnant students, where their personal and academic futures are protected. It’s crucial that universities implement mandatory risk assessments for pregnant students and offer more accessible support systems. Moreover, the legal system should provide a more feasible path to justice for those who experience discrimination, including lowering the costs associated with pursuing legal action.

By signing this petition, you are calling for systemic change that ensures pregnant students are respected and protected within their educational institutions. Let us stand together to demand fair treatment and the right to pursue justice without financial barriers. Please sign this petition to help make a difference for all current and future pregnant students facing discrimination.