Inclusion Solutions Ltd

From today (22 February 2024), bereaved parents in the UK who have experienced losing a baby before 24 weeks of pregnancy can apply for a baby loss certificate. Until now, it has not been necessary to register the birth of an infant stillborn before 24 weeks, which has left some parents to believe that their grief and pain has been overlooked and ignored. This new voluntary scheme provides official recognition of the devastation of miscarriage and losing a baby in early or mid-pregnancy. It is optional – it’s entirely the choice of the parents whether or not they apply for a certificate.   This initiative is part of the Government’s response to the Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned in 2018 to consider the registration and certification of pregnancy loss occurring before 24 weeks gestation. Campaigning by groups and charities such as Tommy’s, Sands, the Miscarriage Association and the Mariposa Trust ensured that this important issue was a key feature of the support given to bereaved parents. Kate Brintworth, Chief Midwifery Officer for England (NHS England), said:  “Compassionate and personalised care at every stage of pregnancy is vital, and I am pleased that women in England will now be able to access a baby loss certificate which recognises the impact and importance of early pregnancy loss to them and their families.“ Currently the scheme only applies in England and there’s a time limit - only those who have lost a baby since 1 September 2018 can apply.  Those who are eligible can make an application for a certificate directly on the Government’s website: https://lnkd.in/e9BPf9A4 In Scotland, there is already a scheme in place - The Memorial Book of Pregnancy and Baby Loss Prior to 24 Weeks. This allows parent to apply to have their baby recorded in the Memorial Book and receive a commemorative certificate of their entry. Employers committed to supporting those experiencing loss during pregnancy are urged to ensure that full details of these schemes and other support available via NHS trusts and charities are widely available.