What policies and guidance it has in place to support staff in relation to fertility matters.

The SPCB recognises the pressures staff face in effectively balancing the responsibilities of work with their personal commitments and is committed to providing appropriate support for staff. A comprehensive range of measures are available to support staff in relation to fertility and other family planning areas. The SPCB will, as good practice, support staff by granting non-statutory special leave with pay for assessment or treatment relating to fertility. MSPs, as employers, also have access to the same time off arrangements for their staff. Recognising that no two cases are the same, individual circumstances are taken into account. For example, the SPCB recognises that staff may require time off to attend appointments for IVF/fertility treatment. Staff may also want to accompany their partner if they are undergoing treatments. Time off is provided equal to the duration of an appointment for preparing for treatment, undergoing treatment and accompanying a partner who is undergoing treatment. MSPs, their staff and parliamentary staff (and their partners) also have access to a free and confidential counselling service which can support those in these circumstances.