Leave for Every Loss
Our Leave for Every Loss campaign was launched to address a clear and longstanding gap in employment rights. Until recently, people who experienced pregnancy loss before 24 weeks had no legal entitlement to bereavement leave, leaving many reliant on employer discretion for support.
The campaign called for all those affected by pregnancy loss — at any stage — to have the right to time off work to grieve and recover, recognising both the physical and emotional impact of loss.
Through sustained advocacy, media engagement, and the voices of people with lived experience, the campaign helped build significant public and political support. This contributed to a landmark change: bereavement leave for pregnancy loss before 24 weeks has now been secured in law through the Employment Rights Act.
This is a major step forward. For the first time, pregnancy loss is being formally recognised within statutory employment rights, helping to ensure people are given the time and space they need following loss. The new entitlement is expected to be implemented in 2027.
However, there is still more to do. Currently, the entitlement is expected to be unpaid, and we continue to advocate for this to be strengthened. Encouragingly, Northern Ireland has already gone further, introducing two weeks of paid bereavement leave for pregnancy loss from April 2026, setting an important precedent for the rest of the UK.
We will continue to campaign to ensure that everyone affected by pregnancy loss receives not only recognition, but meaningful, equitable support — including paid leave — wherever they live and work.
Employers looking to get ahead of changes to the Employment Rights Act can find further information and support on our workplace hub.
Sarah Owen MP, Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, added:
“I’m proud to have worked alongside campaigners and Miscarriage UK to make this happen. It’s a change that will bring comfort and fairness to thousands of people every year.
“Too many parents have had to suffer their loss in silence, returning to work as though nothing happened. This law sends a clear message, that compassion, dignity and understanding have a rightful place in the workplace. It’s about recognising every parent who has experienced this heartbreak and making sure they are seen and supported.”
Myleene Klass, a champion of Miscarriage UK and MBE recipient for her campaigning on miscarriage, said:
“This is proof that by sharing our stories and standing together, we can create real change. Today, we honour every parent who’s felt their loss go unseen.”
