Dr Caoimhe Archibald

Economy minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald this week confirmed the roll-out on 6 April 2026 in her Department’s response to a consultation carried out in 2022.

It marks the implementation of a further part of the Parental Bereavement (Leave and Pay) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.

It effectively extends parental bereavement leave and pay to parents who experience miscarriage or other forms of pregnancy loss at any stage, offering the same two weeks of protected leave and statutory pay already available to parents who lose a child under 18 or experience stillbirth.

Statutory parental bereavement pay will also become a day‑one entitlement from 6 April 2026, ensuring immediate support for parents. This strengthened protection will apply in cases of stillbirth and child death, including parents affected by miscarriage.

The right for pay will be at the statutory rate of £194.32 from 6 April 2026.

Both the woman and partner will have two weeks of paid leave to take over 56 weeks following the miscarriage — in two single week blocks or one block of two weeks.

Dr Archibald said: “Extending this right to women and their partners who experience miscarriage is a significant step in promoting compassion and understanding in the workplace.

“There is no hierarchy of bereavement. Miscarriage is a deeply personal loss, and these rights will ensure parents have the support and time they need to grieve and recover.”