SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has welcomed progress to deliver a scheme to officially recognise pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
In response to an Assembly Question tabled by Mr Durkan, the Minister of Finance indicated that he hopes the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme will be operational by the end of the year.
Said the Foyle MLA: “In my years campaigning for improvements in early baby loss, I’ve met with hundreds of parents who felt their loss or the topic of miscarriage remained taboo, hushed.
“While their experiences and views differed, all of those I’ve spoken to recognised the value in a certification scheme.
“Pleased that progress is being made and that a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme may be in place by then end of the year.
“Losing a child is a pain that no parent should ever have to endure and it’s important to note that grief is not determined by the length of pregnancy and nor should the official recognition.
“For so many, the first glimpse of those blue lines symbolises the beginnings of a life, a child for whom they see a future and tell their loved ones about. Yet one in four families will lose a baby that isn’t recognised outside the confines of the hospital walls.
“Baby Loss Certificates were introduced in England and Scotland in February 2024.
“It’s time families in the North receive the same recognition and support.
“I will continue pushing to ensure this becomes a reality as soon as possible.
“No family should feel their loss is invisible.”
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