UK Parents Gain Two Weeks Bereavement Leave for Miscarriage Before 24 Weeks

In a significant move, workers in England, Scotland, and Wales will soon be entitled to two weeks of paid bereavement leave following a miscarriage before 24 weeks, as part of Labour's Employment Rights Bill. This change addresses the previously limited bereavement leave that was only available for stillbirths after 24 weeks, leaving many parents without support during a challenging time. Advocates, including Labour MP Sarah Owen, have campaigned for this statutory leave, emphasizing the emotional and physical toll of early pregnancy loss, which affects approximately 250,000 pregnancies in the UK each year. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, who has personal experience with pregnancy loss, has expressed strong support for the initiative. The bill is expected to pass its final stages soon, alongside broader reforms aimed at improving workers' rights. These changes reflect a growing recognition of the need for compassionate workplace policies in the face of pregnancy loss.