Scottish Government publishes miscarriage patient charter 

On Friday 20 March, the Scottish Government confirmed that Scotland will become the first country in the UK to introduce a miscarriage patient charter, providing clear information on the care and support people can expect from NHS services. The Miscarriage Association has been closely involved in supporting the development of this work. 

The charter has been commissioned by the Scottish Government and developed in partnership with baby loss charities, including the Miscarriage Association, Tommy’s and Held In Our Hearts. It outlines the standards of care women should receive during and after a miscarriage, including their rights and entitlements. 

It forms part of the Scottish Government’s wider Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care, which aims to improve how NHS Boards support women, including ensuring access to care and support from a first miscarriage. 

The charter sets out key aspects of care, such as access to private spaces in hospital, progesterone treatment where clinically appropriate, and sensitive, culturally competent bereavement support. It is supported by a range of information resources, available both online and in printed formats, including 18 languages, BSL and audio versions. 

Public Health and Women’s Health Minister Jenni Minto said: 

“Miscarriage is devastating, and for too long women have not had the care and support they deserve. That is changing. Scotland will become the first country in the UK to publish a miscarriage patient charter, meaning women know exactly how they will be supported by health services following their loss. 

“This charter is a landmark moment — it tells women clearly what they should expect from their NHS, and it holds services to account for delivering it. Scotland is leading the way, and I am proud of the progress NHS Boards, and our charity partners have made together.” 

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

“We welcome the Scottish Government’s introduction of the miscarriage patient charter and are proud to be involved in this work. We look forward to seeing the charter rolled out.” 

We’re really encouraged by the progress being made to improve pregnancy loss care in Scotland, and are proud to be one of the charities driving this change. You can find out more about our involvement in the Scottish Baby Loss Collaborative here. 

You can find out more about the patient charter for miscarriage care in Scotland, here.