Parents given ‘time to heal’ under plans to expand leave for pregnancy loss

• The UK government plans to amend the Employment Rights Bill to provide bereavement leave for parents experiencing pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
• This change will ensure protected time off, addressing current rules that only grant leave for stillbirths after 24 weeks or the death of a child under 18.
• The amendments will introduce a right to at least one week's leave for pre-24-week losses, with the precise duration to be determined following a consultation.
• Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds supported the move, highlighting the need for dignity and families receiving the “time they need to heal” without job concerns.
• The Miscarriage Association welcomed the announcement as a crucial step acknowledging the significant impact of early pregnancy loss on individuals and their partners.

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Bereavement leave to be rolled out to parents who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks