Economy Minister, Dr , has published the
consultation response on introducing statutory miscarriage leave
and pay in Northern Ireland.
This marks a key step in extending Parental Bereavement Leave and
Pay to parents who experience miscarriage or other forms of
pregnancy loss at any stage, offering the same two weeks of
protected leave and statutory pay already available to parents
who lose a child under 18 or experience stillbirth. Statutory
Parental Bereavement Pay will become a day‑one entitlement from 6
April 2026, ensuring immediate support for parents. This
strengthened protection will apply in cases of stillbirth and
child death, including parents affected by miscarriage.
The consultation, which gathered views from bereaved parents,
stakeholders, employers, trade unions and advocacy groups,
highlighted the need for consistent workplace support and
recognition of the emotional impact of miscarriage. The response
confirms the Department's intention to introduce statutory rights
for affected employees.
The Minister said: “Extending this right to women and
their partners who experience miscarriage is a significant step
in promoting compassion and understanding in the
workplace.
“There is no hierarchy of bereavement. Miscarriage is a
deeply personal loss, and these rights will ensure parents have
the support and time they need to grieve and recover.”
The Minister added: “I thank all those who contributed to
the consultation. Your input has helped shape a policy aimed at
providing meaningful support to those affected.”
The full consultation response is available on the Department's
website at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/miscarriage-leave-and-pay.
Regulations to implement these rights will now be taken forward,
with the new entitlements coming into effect on 6 April 2026.
Notes to editors:
- The right for pay will be at the Statutory Rate - £194.32
from 6 April 2026
- Both the woman and partner will have two weeks of paid leave
to take over 56 weeks following the miscarriage – in two single
week blocks or one block of two weeks.
- The evidence requirements are a declaration to the employer -
no personal medical information will be required.
- Employers will be compensated for the payment of the
statutory rate of pay in line with current HMRC and National
Insurance procedures.
