We fully support the new voluntary baby loss certificate scheme recently launched by the UK Government.

The scheme offers those who experience a loss of a baby before 24 weeks’ gestation a certificate to formally recognise the devastating impact.

Addressing parental grief

Babies stillborn before 24 weeks do not need to be officially registered, leaving some parents feeling ignored. The new certificates, which are not compulsory, will be official but not legal documents.

Jo Holmes, our Children, Young people and Families Lead welcomed the scheme:

“This is a huge step forward in acknowledging such traumatic loss. The pain of losing a baby before 24 weeks is often made even worse for bereaved parents because there is no formal recognition of their baby and their experience.

“It’s also important to recognise the loss of a baby in pregnancy effects not only the mother; it impacts the wider family too. These certificates will help bereaved parents feel supported through their grief, acknowledging their pain and ensuring they feel heard.

“We hope this acknowledgment of the trauma experienced will provide a degree of comfort to parents and encourage those who need more support to seek the help of a qualified counsellor.”

Our member Georgina Sturmer, a therapist working with bereaved parents, added:

“Baby loss is something that we don’t often talk about. Yet, according to SANDS around 15 out of every 100 pregnancies end in miscarriage. There are so many families out there who are coping with the emotional impact of a miscarriage. And up until now, people in England haven’t been offered a way to record the loss of a baby before 24 weeks gestation.  

“That’s what makes today’s news so impactful. It’s important because it offers parents the opportunity to have their loss recognised on an official document. This sends a powerful message that their grief and loss is publicly recognised and won’t be ignored or forgotten.”    

Part of a wider long-term strategy

The Government launched the new scheme in response to the Independent Pregnancy Loss Review as part of its wider long-term plan for women’s health, the Women’s Health Strategy. 

The new scheme is being introduced in England and Wales only. People in Scotland can already apply to have their loss recorded in the Memorial Book of Pregnancy and Baby Loss Prior to 24 weeks, and receive a certificate of inclusion in the book.

To find a registered therapist to support you with parental grief, visit our therapists directory.