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Baby Loss Leave: A Step Forward, But More Needed
23 Sep
Summary
- New unpaid leave up to two weeks for baby loss before 24 weeks.
- Charity founder calls the change positive but incomplete.
- Equality concerns remain for all types of pregnancy loss.
Starting next April, parents experiencing pregnancy loss before 24 weeks will be entitled to up to two weeks of unpaid leave. This new government policy aims to provide support during a difficult time.
Samantha Catanach, founder of the Hull-based charity Chasing Rainbows, which supports those affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, and infertility, welcomed the development. She stated that any progression in policy signifies a move towards normalizing conversations around baby loss.
Catanach highlighted the positive aspect that both women and men will now be eligible for this leave. Nonetheless, she expressed that the journey towards full equality in how all types of baby loss are recognized and supported is far from over, especially for individuals facing multiple losses.
