Employment Rights Bill receives Royal Assent bringing pregnancy loss bereavement leave into law

Further to our post yesterday about the Employment Rights Bill being passed in Parliament, it has now received Royal Assent, confirming pregnancy loss bereavement leave will become law.

Royal Assent is the final, formal step in the legislative process, when a Bill is approved by the King. This marks a significant milestone, as for the first time bereavement leave following pre-24-week pregnancy loss is recognised in statutory employment rights.

However, although the legislation is now law, the new bereavement leave entitlement will not take effect immediately. The Government has indicated that the provisions are expected to be implemented in late 2026 or 2027, once detailed regulations and guidance have been developed.

In the meantime, the Government’s consultation on bereavement leave remains open until 15 January 2026. This consultation will shape how the leave will work in practice, including eligibility and the length of leave.

Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of the Miscarriage Association, said:

“We welcome the legal recognition of bereavement leave following pre-24-week pregnancy loss, as the Employment Rights Bill becomes law. This is an important step in acknowledging the profound impact of pregnancy loss and the need for time and space to grieve.

“However, under the current proposals, the entitlement would be for one week of unpaid leave. Through our Leave for Every Loss campaign, we have consistently called for a minimum of two weeks’ paid bereavement leave.

“The detail of the final policy will matter greatly, and we will continue to work with the Government to ensure the guidance delivers meaningful and compassionate support for those affected.”

The Miscarriage Association urges anyone with lived experience, employers, or specialist organisations to respond to the consultation to help shape guidance that truly reflects the needs of people affected by pregnancy loss.