Certificates recognising the heartbreak of pregnancy loss extended to all
9th October 2024
We are pleased to share that, as of today (Wednesday, 9th October), the Government has announced that everyone who has experienced pregnancy loss—regardless of when it occurred—can now apply for a certificate that formally acknowledges their loss.
Since the scheme launched in February 2024, over 50,000 certificates have been issued, but until now, they were only available to those whose loss occurred after September 2018.
Vicki Robinson, Miscarriage Association Chief Executive, said:
“We’ve campaigned hard to see the certificate scheme extended to include losses before 2018, so today marks a significant milestone for those who have waited for this recognition. For many, even the earliest of losses can be deeply distressing, both emotionally and physically, but having a formal acknowledgement as a marker of their loss can be a meaningful part of the grieving process.
“We know from the people that we support how much the certification scheme has helped those who have experienced pregnancy loss, so this is great news that people whose losses were previously not acknowledged now can be.”
From today, this voluntary service will be extended with no backdate allowing anyone who has suffered a historic pregnancy loss or does in the future to apply.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:
“Losing a pregnancy can be deeply distressing – there is so much love and so many dreams for the future wrapped up in a tiny life. That’s why it is important for bereaved parents to have the option to officially recognise the existence of their babies and how much they matter.
“I’m pleased we can now ensure all parents are able to apply for these certificates, no matter how long ago they lost their pregnancies. This government will always listen to women and families as we overhaul our health system to ensure everyone gets compassionate, safe and personalised care.”
Baroness Gillian Merron, Minister for Patient Safety, Women’s Health and Mental Health, said:
“I would like to thank all of the women and campaigners for their ongoing work on raising awareness around baby loss – without your bravery, this wouldn’t be possible.
“We are committed to ensuring that women are listened to during every stage of pregnancy, as we work to improve maternity and neonatal services across the country.”
The certificates are entirely optional and while not legal documents, we know they provide comfort to many people who may have felt their loss was not considered as important as others.
If you would like to receive a certificate of your loss in England, click here or for losses in Scotland, click here. Discussions are ongoing around extending the scheme to Wales and Northern Ireland. You can read more about other ways you may wish to mark your loss here.
