Published 5 hours ago • loading... • Updated 1 hour ago
Luton MP Who Campaigned for Change Welcomes New Pregnancy Loss Bereavement Leave Rights
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced new legislation granting employees up to two weeks of unpaid bereavement leave for pregnancy losses before 24 weeks. From April, the rules extend to partners and family relatives.
The Department developed measures after consultations aimed at ending 'inconsistency and confusion.' Work advocates successfully pushed for formal recognition of pregnancy loss, which previously lacked statutory protection.
Under The Employment Rights Act, the expanded bereavement leave covers the loss of a spouse, partner, parent, adult child, or sibling. The policy includes step, half, foster, kinship, and adoptive relatives.
Minister Kate Dearden said, 'No one should have to fight for time to grieve.' Vicki Robinson added the change provides a 'baseline for employers to go further.'
Beyond these changes, The Government is reviewing wider parental leave and pay policies. Discussions regarding the Law related to Hugh would provide statutory paid leave for parents of seriously ill children.