UK Government Expands Baby Loss Certificate Scheme

The UK government has extended the baby loss certificate scheme to include all parents who have experienced pregnancy loss, removing the previous cut-off date of September 2018. Parents can now apply for a certificate if they lost a child before 24 weeks of pregnancy, or before 28 weeks if the loss occurred before October 1992. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the importance of officially recognizing the loss, stating it can be deeply distressing for parents. Over 50,000 certificates have been issued since the scheme's initial launch in February 2024. This initiative aims to provide support and acknowledgment to bereaved parents during Baby Loss Awareness Week, highlighting the emotional impact of such losses. The scheme is voluntary, with no backlog for past losses, reflecting the government's commitment to improving care for families affected by pregnancy loss.