On Wednesday 27 November MP’s on the cross-party held a session Women and Equalities Committee (WEC) session as part of the Equality at Work: Miscarriage and Bereavement Leave Inquiry. The inquiry is examining the case for extending statutory bereavement leave to include pregnancy losses before 24 weeks’ gestation.
Currently, bereavement leave is only available after 24 weeks, leaving those experiencing earlier losses—such as miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy—without the same legal protections. Women in this position are often forced to take sick leave, which may be paid or unpaid, while partners have no legal entitlement to leave at all.
Speaking at the inquiry were Munira Oza, Chief Executive of The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust, Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of the Miscarriage Association, and Dr Jessica Farren, Consultant Gynaecologist and specialist in pregnancy loss trauma.
Munira highlighted the significant physical and emotional impact of ectopic pregnancy loss and the need for statutory bereavement leave to ensure families receive the compassion and support they need during such a difficult time. She also stressed the importance of ensuring ectopic pregnancy is expressly included in communications to ensure the experiences of those affected are recognised, validated, and included.
This session represents an important step in recognising the realities of pregnancy loss and driving meaningful change in workplace policies.
Watch the full proceedings here
For further information about workplace support, visit: https://ectopic.org.uk/the-workplace
