All parents who have experienced miscarriages can now apply for a certificate formally recognising their loss, the government has today announced (9).
Baby loss certificates were first launched in February 2024 but were only available to those who had experienced a loss since September 2018.
From today, this voluntary service will be extended with no backdate allowing all parents who have suffered an historic pregnancy loss or a future loss to apply.
More than 50,000 certificates have been issued so far.
The government said it was committed to ensuring bereaved parents are supported during this difficult time, and that the impact and importance of their loss is recognised.
Certificates are free and remain optional for parents.
Health 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.”
Vicki Robinson, chief executive of the charity Miscarriage Association, said: “We’ve been extremely keen to see the 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.”
The extension of the service marks Baby Loss Awareness Week which is held every year from October 9-15.
Samantha Collinge, bereavement lead midwife at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust and co-chair of the Pregnancy Loss Review, described the change as ‘a huge milestone moment’
She said: “Since I was appointed as a bereavement midwife in 1998 I have campaigned for a standardised care pathway that ensures that every parent experiencing baby loss – regardless of the gestation or type of loss – receives the physical and emotional care and support they deserve.
“Removing the restrictions around the application process will give all bereaved parents of pre 24 week baby loss the official recognition that their babies did exist and that their babies lives, however brief really do matter.”
A certificate is available for any parent to access following a loss before 24 weeks, or 28 weeks for a loss before October 1992.
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and live in England.
Parents can apply for a certificate HERE
