AQW 33497/22-27


Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry


Tabled Date: 14/10/2025
Answered On Date: 29/10/2025
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) whether his Department has assessed regional variation in access to miscarriage and pregnancy loss services, and (ii) how it is working to ensure equitable provision across all Health and Social Care Trusts.


Answer:
My Department are aware that there is variation across Trusts in relation to access to miscarriage and pregnancy loss services.
The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. My Department has been overseeing a major programme of work on maternity and neonatal services, with an immediate focus on improving governance and safety. Collectively, this work will result in a consolidated regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.
A range of compassionate and dedicated support options have been developed and are available in each Health and Social Care Trust, including, Bereavement support midwife posts, counselling services, early pregnancy units and importantly information and signposting to bereavement support groups, which offer specialised resources and peer support so that grieving families can receive one to one care they need during this difficult time.
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 has introduced primary legislation in the Assembly, which will enable the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for NI - The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill. ‘This initiative would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised.
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.
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.