Baby loss certificates are now available to parents who experienced pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
The scheme is part of the 2024 Women’s Health Strategy, built upon recommendations from the Pregnancy Loss Review in July last year.
Parents who have lost a baby before 24 weeks, on or after 1 September 2018, can apply for the certificate online. The government hope to expand the eligibility beyond this date in the near future.
Health and social care secretary, Victoria Atkins said: ‘Losing a baby can be a hugely traumatic event and the introduction of certificates to formally acknowledge the loss of life is a positive step towards better supporting women and parents affected.’
She also thanked ‘charities and campaigners for their continuous work in bringing awareness to baby loss and making the certificates launching possible’.
Chief midwifery officer for England, Kate Brintworth added: ‘Compassionate and personalised care at every stage of pregnancy is vital.’
A memorial book scheme is already available in Scotland, while Wales plan to introduce a similar service in the future. Parents can request a baby loss certificate here.
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