Miscarriage Care

Lord Archbishop of Canterbury Excerpts

Monday 18th May 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

In terms of the renewed women’s health strategy, we are going further than just mental health, important though it is, and taking a new and better whole-life course approach, right from the availability of contraception all the way through to and including menopause, because this is all part of life’s reproduction journey. That will greatly assist. On miscarriage and mental health, we have established mental health services in all areas of the country, which are available for those with pre-existing mental health needs. Bereavement counselling is also widely available for those who experience baby loss. We have also set up maternal mental health services to provide care for those who have moderate, severe or complex mental health difficulties arising from loss or birth trauma.

[The Archbishop of Canterbury]

My Lords, baby loss can be one of the most difficult experiences for any person, but especially for NHS staff who work in or around maternity and neonatal care settings. Can the Minister outline for us what specific support is in place in the NHS for staff who experience baby loss that recognises this additional need?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

The most reverend Primate makes a very sensitive point, which is of course correct. That is why NHS England has published a new policy to support NHS employees who are affected by baby loss, including paid leave. Our development through the Employment Rights Act will apply to NHS workers, including giving leave from work. We are currently consulting on the detail of this. It is about acknowledging the extreme effect on individuals of losing a baby, no matter at what stage.