“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.
“I’d like to thank charities and campaigners for their continuous work in bringing awareness to baby loss and making the certificates launching possible.
“Improving women’s health care and maternity support is a priority, and this demonstrates progress in delivering our Women’s Health Strategy and ensuring parents feel supported during this heart-breaking experience.”
The introduction of baby loss certificates aligns with the government’s commitment following the independent Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned in 2018. This review aimed to assess the registration and certification of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks gestation and the quality of care provided. The review’s findings emphasized the importance of enhancing care and support for grieving parents, recognising that while preventing pre-24-week pregnancy losses may be challenging, there is significant room for improvement in the care provided.
The Women’s Health Strategy for England in 2024 has prioritised improvements to maternity care and birth trauma support. This strategic plan is crucial for enhancing the overall health and wellbeing of women and girls.”
Minister for the Women’s Health Strategy, Maria Caulfield said:
“We have listened to parents who have gone through what can be an unbelievably painful experience of losing a baby, and that is why today we are introducing baby loss certificates to recognise their loss, as part of our wider long-term plan for women’s health in our country, the Women’s Health Strategy.
“I would like to thank the tireless work of campaigners and charities for their work in supporting this agenda and making the certificates a reality.”
