AQW 30620/22-27


Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley


Tabled Date: 08/09/2025
Answered On Date: 23/09/2025
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the Health and Social Care Trusts which offer psychological support pathways for bereaved parents following (a) miscarriage; (b) stillbirth; and (c) neonatal death, as part of perinatal community mental health services; and (ii) whether he will commit to introducing specialist care pathways for bereaved parents in every Health and Social Care Trust.


Answer:
The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families.
(i) Each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts provides a range of support services, which may include:
Bereavement Midwives: Specially trained midwives are available in many Trusts to provide compassionate, one-to-one support following miscarriage or baby loss.
Counselling Services: Trusts offer access to psychological therapies, either directly or through referral, to support individuals experiencing grief, trauma, or mental health challenges following pregnancy loss.
Referral Pathways: Health professionals can refer patients to external organisations such as the Miscarriage Association, SANDS UK, and Cruse Bereavement Support, which offer specialised resources and peer support.
Early Pregnancy Units (EPUs): These units often serve as the first point of contact for women experiencing miscarriage and can provide immediate emotional support and follow-up care.
Information and Signposting: Trusts provide written and digital resources to help individuals understand their options and access further support.
In addition, a regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service has been established in each Trust to provide assessment, care planning, and treatment for women experiencing severe perinatal mental illness, including postpartum psychosis. Where appropriate, care is coordinated with maternity units and health visitors to ensure continuity and holistic support.
You may also be aware that the Department of Finance is introducing ‘The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill’ in the Assembly which includes provision for the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for Northern Ireland. This initiative, currently under public consultation, would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised. Departmental officials will continue to work closely with the Department of Finance, around the consultation process and development of the scheme.
The Department of Health Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have actively engaged with bereavement charities, particularly SANDS UK, to enhance support services for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.
(ii) SANDS UK, with funding from the PHA, are currently developing the National Bereavement Care Pathway (NBCP) in Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to improve the quality and consistency of bereavement care for parents and families. The NBCP includes nine standards designed to ensure sensitive communication, opportunities for memory-making, and dignified support for grieving families.
As part of the project healthcare professionals will be equipped with training, resources, and materials to deliver compassionate and informed care. Engagement with families who have a lived experience will be integral to the development of the pathways for NI, ensuring that bereavement support services are both clinically sound and emotionally responsive.
My Department do however acknowledge the gaps that exist for Specialist Psychological support for Bereaved Parents and remain committed to improving services. As you are aware, my Department is faced with a very challenging financial position at this time, but where possible I will prioritise the development of this service to ensure the appropriate advice and support is available to individuals and their families.
Please also be assured that I remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.