Leave for bereavement including pregnancy loss (Department for Business and Trade)
January 2026
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The Employment Rights Bill introduced a new day-one right to unpaid bereavement leave for employees who experience the loss of a loved one, including pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. The government sought views on eligibility criteria, types of pregnancy loss in scope, when and how bereavement leave can be taken and notice and evidence requirements. MWNUK submitted written evidence to the Make Work Pay: Leave for Bereavement including Pregnancy Loss consultation (Department for Business and Trade). We supported a bereavement leave policy focused on immediate family members, with flexibility for other close relationships on a case-by-case basis. We recommended that pregnancy-loss leave primarily apply to the person who experienced the loss, with partners using other leave options. We proposed one week of unpaid leave, flexible timing, simple notice arrangements, and no requirement for formal evidence—only a declaration. Overall, we emphasised the need to balance compassion for employees with fairness and practicality for employers.
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Our Supporters
Caroline Nokes MP
Conservative Party
Muslim Women's Network UK ensures that the voices of Muslim women are heard. They are not just a support network but a movement for change. I am proud to work with them.
Jess Phillips MP
Labour Party
MWNUK is courageous because of the uncompromising and fearless positions it sometimes takes when calling out injustice and inequality
Sadiq khan
London Mayor
I am proud to support and champion this fantastic organisation, which is informing policy and transforming lives.
Baroness Sayeeda Warsi
Conservative Party
MWNUK’s authenticity comes from knowledge of lived experiences of Muslim women and girls acquired through their helpline, research and members.
Naz Shah MP
Labour Party
They work tirelessly with passion and commitment to make a difference and improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable women and girls in society.
