Baby Loss Certificates available in England

22/02/2024

We welcome the decision made by the UK Government that parents who have lost a baby before 24 weeks of pregnancy in England can now apply for an official baby loss certificate.

Our Founder/CEO Leanne Turner said, "Aching Arms are incredibly proud to have stood alongside other baby loss charities to campaign for recognition of our babies lives."

Further information and to apply for a certificate can be found here on the Government website. 

These voluntary certificates will be available for all parents who have experienced losses before 24 weeks. At the moment, the certificates are only available to parents who lost a baby after 1st September 2018 in England. This is in place to prevent the system from becoming overwhelmed. 

We understand with this news, many people had some questions and we would like to provide you with some answers here:

Where can I apply for a certificate?

You can visit the Government website here to apply for your certificate: https://www.gov.uk/request-baby-loss-cerificate

What will I need to be able to apply for a certificate?

- You will need your NHS Number or your post code that is registered with your GP. 
- Your mobile number or email address registered with your GP.
- Permission from the other parent and their email address, if you would like their name on the certificate.

Can I apply for a certificate if I had a loss before 2018?

The Government will be opening this up to all parents eventually. At the moment, the certificates are only available to parents who lost a baby after 1st September 2018 in England. We understand that this news may be upsetting for parents who have lost a baby before this time, and this time frame is in place to prevent the Government website from becoming overwhlemed. We are reassured this is will be availble soon. 

Can I apply for a certificate if I live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?

Certificates are available in England and you must have been living in England at the time of your loss. If you live in Scotland, you can apply for your baby to be remembered in the Memorial Book of Pregnancy and Baby Loss here.  

Campaigners are still working towards certificates being made available through the UK. We will update you on our website and social media, should there be any further news on this. 

We also want to remind you, we are here to support you. Our Supporting Arms Team can be contacted by phoning or texting 07464 508994 or by emaling support@achingarms.co.uk 

« Back to News