2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:33 pm on 13 December 2022.

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Photo of Delyth Jewell Delyth Jewell Plaid Cymru 2:33, 13 December 2022

I'd like to ask for a statement, please, relating to the support that's given to mothers and families who lose their babies before 24 weeks in Wales. At present, women who lose babies before that time don't receive a certificate of birth. Since July, in England, women who suffer miscarriage or ectopic or molar pregnancy before that date can receive a certificate, and many women have spoken publicly about how that can help with the grieving process. 

Certificates alone aren't enough, of course. As I've raised before, I'd like further support given to mothers and families in Wales, like maternity and compassionate leave for those who lose babies earlier in their little lives. But introducing this change relating to birth certificates would truly help so many women come to terms with the loss they've suffered, and help them record and commemorate the lives of their children. I'd welcome a statement on this, please.