Overview

This bill proposes the creation of a "certificate of loss" for mothers who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth not currently eligible for registration under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953. The bill will also establish a database to archive these certificates and record relevant information.

Description

The bill mandates the issuance of a certificate of loss to mothers upon written request, confirmed by a medical professional, for miscarried or stillborn children ineligible for registration under the 1953 Act. This certificate will include details such as the child's age (if available), parents' names, and the date of miscarriage or stillbirth. The Secretary of State will determine additional information to be included via regulation. A publicly accessible database will archive these certificates, along with the cause of loss where known. The Secretary of State will also designate a body to act as registrar for the process. The bill applies to England and Wales only and will take effect one year after its passage.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will be associated with establishing and maintaining the database, administering the certificate issuing process, and the operational costs of the designated registrar body. Further funding may be required for any additional information specified by the Secretary of State to be recorded in the database.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects:
• Mothers who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth: They will be able to obtain formal recognition of their loss.
• Medical professionals: They will play a role in verifying the requests for certificates.
• The Registrar General: A body will be appointed by the Secretary of State to manage the administration of the scheme.
• UK Government: They will be responsible for the financial implications of setting up and maintaining the database and associated administration.

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