EastEnders viewers were left in tears as Whitney was dealt another cruel blow.
Whitney and Zack - played by Shona McGarty and James Farrar - lost their baby in heartbreaking scenes that aired last week, with the pair understandably still struggling with all that had happened. The pair were then told by the nurse that they weren't able to get a birth or death certificate for their baby Peach, leaving them both devastated.
During tonight's episode, Whitney was given even more sad news as she spoke to Honey about coming back to work and what her plans are going forward for her business. She was told that she isn't eligible to receive leave after the tragic loss of her baby.
However, things took an even worse turn for Whitney as she found out she wasn't even allowed to have statutory leave because she was self-employed, but also because she lost her baby before the 24 weeks time period.
"I've been going through the employment law and I did find some information on there, statutory parental bereavement leave and pay, and it does explain here that you don't qualify as you're self-employed," Honey said.
Whitney then replied: "Look all I'm asking is if they can hold my pitch, for just a couple of weeks. I need to sort myself out."
Honey then admitted she had tried to organise it for her, but Mr Lister insisted she would need to be back in a week.
"I did speak to Mr Lister about this and I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, it's just, he said, he would give you another week sick leave and then he does expect you to return. Otherwise you would lose your pitch. I'm really sorry Whitney, if it was down to me, I wouldn't charge you a penny. It's just Mr Lister, he's worried that it's unfair to men because they can't have babies," she said.
Whitney then held back her tears, as she added: "No, that can't be right, bereavement leave - even if I was employed - it doesn't apply until after 24 weeks of pregnancy, so I don't qualify. My baby doesn't count."
Fans were horrified by Whitney's ordeal, as one wrote: "Bereavement leave. Once again a baby lost at pre 24 weeks is considered of no emotional importance #EastEnders #Whitney #Zack."
"Mr Lister is horrible! Whitney is grieving and he wants her to return to work next week! #EastEnders," a second added, as a third penned: "Poor Whitney so wrong she can't have bereavement leave #EastEnders."
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at childbereavementuk.org or you can call them on 0800 02 888 40.
