The government under Andy Burnham has confirmed significant changes to bereavement and pregnancy loss leave rights, set to take effect from April 2027. These reforms will grant women and their partners entitlement to up to two weeks of unpaid leave in the event of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade announced these changes on 22 September 2026. The new regulations will apply not only to pregnancy loss but also to employees grieving the loss of close family members, including a spouse or partner, parent, adult child, or sibling.
The leave provisions for pregnancy loss will cover a range of circumstances, such as miscarriage, terminations, and unsuccessful IVF embryo transfers. Both women and their partners, including the other biological parent or intended parents through surrogacy arrangements, will qualify for this leave.
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Kate Dearden, Minister for the Future of Work, emphasised the importance of support during difficult times: “No one should have to fight for time to grieve. These changes back people going through some of the hardest moments of life, whoever they are and wherever they work.” She acknowledged the role of campaigners whose testimonies have been instrumental in bringing about this change.
Dearden also noted that while many employers already offer compassionate leave beyond statutory requirements, establishing a legal entitlement ensures a consistent safety net across workplaces. The government will continue collaborating with businesses to facilitate the smooth introduction of these measures.
Responding to the announcement, Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of Miscarriage UK, expressed support for the new leave entitlements. She stated, “We welcome today’s announcement that bereavement leave for pre-24-week pregnancy loss will become law in April 2027, with an increased minimum of two weeks’ leave and an entitlement that recognises partners, too.”
Robinson highlighted the importance of recognising pregnancy loss as a form of bereavement and its profound emotional impact. She urged further advancements, particularly advocating for paid bereavement leave through the organisation’s Leave for Every Loss campaign. Miscarriage UK will continue working with the government to ensure that the forthcoming guidance offers compassionate and meaningful support to all affected individuals.