Anyone in Scotland who experiences a miscarriage before the 24-week mark will now be able to mark the loss with a new memorial book and a commemorative certificate
Until now, only losses from 24 weeks of pregnancy, legally known as stillbirths, are – and by law must be – registered. The new memorial book and optional commemorative certificate will for the first time provide recognition of earlier losses.
The Miscarriage Association is privileged to have been a part of the Task and Finish group that has worked on this important project which we believe will be a great comfort to many.
MA National Director Ruth Bender Atik said: “Many, if not most, people see the loss of a pregnancy, however early it happens, as the loss of a baby and of a planned future together.
“Until now, however, there has been no formal recognition of this type of loss, something which can add to existing feelings of distress and grief.
“We believe the new Memorial Book and certificate will bring solace to many, providing an acknowledgment of their baby’s all too brief life.
“It has been a privilege to work with representatives from the Scottish Government’s Maternal and Infant Health, Improving Health and Wellbeing Division, from National Records of Scotland, from NHS providers, and from charities representing those who have experienced pre-24 week loss. All have contributed their knowledge, experience, and advice with the utmost thoughtfulness and sensitivity to this project.
“We look forward to the Memorial Book and certificates being available later this year.”
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said this move would have been a comfort to her and her husband following their miscarriage.
She said: “I have spoken in the past about my personal experience of miscarriage, and I know the sense of grief will stay with me and my husband forever. I also know that we would have drawn comfort at the time if there had been a way for us to mark the loss and formally recognise the child we were grieving.”
