We are pleased to share that as of today, 22 June 2026, a baby loss certificate scheme is now available in Northern Ireland.
Until now, there has been no formal recognition for pregnancy losses before 24 weeks, and while these certificates are not legal documents, for many they offer an important acknowledgement of their baby and their experience of loss.
The scheme allows anyone who has experienced the loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks – or before 28 weeks for losses that occurred before 1992 – to apply for a certificate recognising their loss.
Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of Miscarriage UK, said:
“We welcome the introduction of baby loss certificates in Northern Ireland and the acknowledgement they can offer to those who have experienced pregnancy loss.
“These certificates cannot take away the pain of losing a baby, but they can provide official recognition and validation that their baby mattered. For many bereaved parents, that acknowledgement can be deeply meaningful and help challenge the silence that too often surrounds pregnancy loss.”
Erin Sharkey, Miscarriage UK’s Northern Ireland support group leader, said:
“Having the option of an official baby loss certificate, recognised by Stormont, will help bereaved families to begin to grieve, with a tangible memorial to their baby. A certificate will bring validity to all the feelings that come with the loss of a pregnancy, the sadness, the anger, the confusion, and will bring much comfort to those who request one.”
For many bereaved parents, official recognition of their loss can be deeply meaningful. These certificates acknowledge experiences that have too often gone unseen or unspoken and provide a lasting recognition that every loss matters.
The scheme is now live, and applications can be made here.