Expectant parents who suffer a miscarriage before 24 weeks will now be entitled to bereavement leave under an amendment to the Employment Rights Bill.
The change, introduced by the new Labour Government, marks a significant shift in workplace rights for parents who have previously been forced to return to work immediately after pregnancy loss.
Under current employment law, parents are not entitled to any paid time off if they lose a baby before 24 weeks of gestation. The new legislation grants two weeks of leave, offering support to those who experience miscarriage during the early stages of pregnancy.
The change follows years of campaigning by solicitor Keeley Lengthorn, who launched the George’s Law campaign after the loss of her son George at 22 and a half weeks on 3 March 2022. Lengthorn, a family partner at RWK Goodman, has also suffered two previous miscarriages. She described the law change as a “momentous moment” that will provide comfort to thousands of families.
Campaigning Leads to Change in Workplace Rights
Keeley Lengthorn welcomed the reform, stating, “This law change is a momentous moment. It will bring comfort and support to so many people across the country who currently have to suffer the trauma of returning to work immediately after losing their child. I am overwhelmed and speechless and truly grateful that the Government has finally recognised the need for this bereavement leave.
Lengthorn added, “Miscarriages happen to one in five families and so these new reforms will help approximately 250,000 families per year. The fact that this announcement was made on what would have been George’s 3rd birthday makes it all the more prevalent.
“When George died, I made a promise to him that I would ensure that his tiny footprints would create a huge legacy and a voice for change and he has done just that. I am a very proud mum.”
Legislative Support for Bereavement Leave
The decision to extend bereavement leave follows pressure from Labour MP Sarah Owen, chair of the women and equalities select committee. The committee’s January report concluded that the case for change was “overwhelming,” citing the significant physical and emotional impact of pregnancy loss.
While some employers already offer paid miscarriage leave as a discretionary benefit, the new law ensures that all affected parents will have access to support. Each year, approximately 250,000 expectant mothers in the UK experience miscarriage, with between 10% and 20% of pregnancies ending in early miscarriage within the first 12 weeks of gestation.
