Parents in England who have lost baby before 24 weeks can apply for certificate

Starting Thursday, parents in England can request a government certificate acknowledging their grief for a baby lost to miscarriage before the 24th week of pregnancy.

This initiative, welcomed by baby loss charities, offers official recognition of their loss since September 2018. Although not a legal document, it fulfills the government's 2022 commitment under its women's health strategy.

Eligible parents who resided in England at the time of the loss and continue to do so can apply via the gov.uk website. The certificate is aimed at providing comfort to bereaved parents and acknowledging the emotional impact of pre-24-week baby loss.

Ministers aim to eventually extend the eligibility timeframe beyond September 2018. In Scotland, a similar certificate is already available, and losses are recorded in a memorial book. Almost all NHS England trusts are expected to provide a bereavement service daily starting next month.