Statutory Miscarriage Bereavement Leave to Move Forward in the House of Lords, Government Announces

The Miscarriage Association welcomes the Government’s report, published today (Monday, 24 March), which outlines plans for statutory bereavement leave for those experiencing pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.  

In the written response, the Department for Business and Trade confirmed it “looks forward to further discussions with the [Women & Equalities] Committee regarding the introduction of a statutory entitlement for such leave as the Bill moves to the House of Lords.” 

During the Employment Rights Bill debate in the House of Commons on 11 March, the Government acknowledged the need for bereavement leave following pregnancy loss and committed to further discussions with the Lords as the Bill progresses. 

Business and Trade Minister Justin Madders praised the Women and Equalities Committee (WEC), its Chair, and campaigners for their efforts, noting that the WEC’s report “demonstrated a clear gap in support” and that the Government “fully accepts the principle of bereavement leave for pregnancy loss.” He emphasised that “bereavement is not an illness” and that pregnancy loss “does need its own special category.” 

The Government’s written response further stated: “The Government agrees that more can be done to support parents who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. The Committee’s report was invaluable in highlighting both the emotional and physical impacts that pregnancy loss can have on employees and their partners, as well as the gap in support for those who experience a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. While we recognise that grief is a personal issue and affects people in different ways and at different times, we are mindful that many experience pregnancy loss as a form of bereavement.” 

“We are grateful to the Committee for their work in highlighting the gap in support for women and their partners who experience a pre-24-week pregnancy loss. The Government recognises the importance of creating a supportive work environment for those affected by pregnancy loss and bereavement, ensuring those impacted receive the necessary time and support to cope with their loss. We look forward to continuing discussions on this important topic.” 

Sarah Owen MP, Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, welcomed the Government’s response: “It’s hugely welcome that the Government has listened to those calling for statutory bereavement leave for pre-24-week pregnancy losses. As the Women and Equalities Committee’s January report on miscarriage and bereavement leave found, the case for a minimum standard in law is overwhelming.” 

“Miscarriages and other pre-24-week pregnancy losses can be devastating for women and their families, with both emotional and physical consequences. Like many women, I know that when you lose a pregnancy, you are not sick, you are grieving, and it is an overwhelmingly positive step to see the government recognising this need for all workers.” 

“The Government’s commitment to explore options for change during the House of Lords’ consideration of the Employment Rights Bill is welcome. While the Government has not yet committed to the statutory paid leave we called for, its commitment to explore options on leave is tangible progress and will make a vital difference to those who experience the heartbreak of pregnancy loss.” 

Vicki Robinson, CEO of the Miscarriage Association, said: “We are extremely pleased to see, for the first time ever, those experiencing pre-24-week pregnancy loss will be officially recognised in bereavement leave legislation. This represents a significant step forward and provides long-overdue validation that this type of loss can be experienced as a bereavement, just like any other. 

“This achievement reflects the tireless efforts of the Miscarriage Association, Sarah Owen MP, our partner organisations and charities, and individuals in calling for change through our Leave for Every Loss campaign.” 

“Whilst this is a very positive and welcome step, we are committed to engaging with the Government, alongside the WEC, as the Bill passes through the next stages to ensure the new legislation fully benefits and supports our communities.” 

Concluding, Sarah Owen MP, added: “A change in the law on miscarriage bereavement leave would make the UK one of only four countries in the world that have set a marker for employers to recognise that all those who experience the physical and emotional pain of pregnancy loss can take the time they need to grieve.” 

For more information on our Leave for Every Loss campaign, please visit https://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/media-queries/press-releases/