Employment Rights Bill passes at House of Lords, bringing pregnancy loss bereavement leave closer

The Government’s Employment Rights Bill has now passed through the House of Lords, clearing the final parliamentary hurdle and bringing bereavement leave for pregnancy loss a significant step closer to being confirmed in law. The Bill will now proceed to Royal Assent (expected tomorrow), the final formal stage before it becomes law.

However, while the Bill has now cleared its final parliamentary stage, the detail of how this leave will work in practice is still being decided. Under the current proposals, the entitlement is for one week of unpaid leave. While these changes are very welcome and mark a significant improvement in bereavement leave rights, people affected by miscarriage have told us they need paid leave. This remains a key issue we have fought hard for through our Leave for Every Loss campaign.

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

“We welcome the Employment Rights Bill passing through the House of Lords, bringing bereavement leave following pre-24-week pregnancy loss a significant step closer to being confirmed in law.

“This marks an important milestone in recognising the impact of pregnancy loss on women and their partners, and the need for time and space to grieve.”

The Government’s consultation on bereavement leave, including pregnancy loss, remains open until 15 January and will determine key issues such as eligibility and length of leave.

We will continue to work with Government to ensure the final policy delivers meaningful support for every loss. Because every loss matters.