Overview

This bill proposes the creation of a "certificate of loss" for mothers who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth that isn't currently eligible for official registration. It will establish a national database to record this information, offering official recognition of these losses.

Description

The Certificate of Loss Bill mandates the issuance of a certificate to mothers following a miscarriage or stillbirth if the child doesn't meet the criteria for registration under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953. This requires medical confirmation of the pregnancy loss. The certificate will include details like the child's estimated age (if available), parents' names, and the date of the miscarriage or stillbirth. Additional information may be specified by the Secretary of State through regulations. A publicly accessible database will be created to archive these certificates and record the cause of loss (if known). The bill also defines "miscarriage" and "stillbirth" and designates a body to act as the registrar for this process. The act applies to England and Wales only, coming into force 12 months after its passage. Parliamentary approval is required for all regulations made under this act.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will be incurred in establishing and maintaining the database, designing and implementing the certificate process, and staffing the designated registrar body. Further costs are anticipated to be incurred in the creation of the supporting regulations needed.

Groups Affected

• Mothers experiencing miscarriage or stillbirth: They will be directly impacted by receiving a certificate acknowledging their loss, potentially offering comfort and official recognition.
• Medical Professionals: Will be involved in confirming pregnancy loss and potentially providing information for the certificate.
• Registrar's Office: This office (or a designated body) will be responsible for issuing certificates and managing the database.
• Government Agencies: Departments will be involved in implementing regulations and funding the initiative.

Powered by nyModel