Employees are due to gain new rights to unpaid bereavement leave from April 2027, including protection for people affected by pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. The government confirmed the core design after consulting employers, workers and organisations with relevant experience.
Who will the new right cover?
The planned right extends beyond the existing statutory parental bereavement framework. It is intended to cover the death of a spouse or partner, parent, adult child or sibling, with step, half, adoptive, kinship and foster relationships included. Regulations are expected to provide the full legal definitions.
How will pregnancy-loss leave work?
Women who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, and their partners, are set to be entitled to up to two weeks of unpaid leave. The announcement covers miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and molar pregnancy, unsuccessful IVF embryo transfer and termination for medical reasons. Existing maternity and parental-bereavement provisions apply in different circumstances, including some losses from 24 weeks onward.
When can leave be taken?
The government says eligible leave can be used flexibly within 56 weeks of the bereavement, including as individual days. That design recognises that grief and practical responsibilities do not follow a single timetable. Notice and evidence requirements will be set out in secondary legislation.
Is the leave paid?
The newly announced entitlement is unpaid. Employers can choose to offer contractual pay or more generous leave, while employees may have access to other statutory or workplace provisions. The new right is therefore a legal floor rather than a complete description of every employer’s policy.
What should employers and workers do now?
The rights are planned for April 2027, with implementing regulations expected beforehand. Employers can review compassionate-leave policies and manager guidance, but should avoid treating the announcement as the final legislative text. Workers should check the law and their employer’s policy when the provisions take effect. This article is general information, not legal advice.
Primary sources: the government announcement and the consultation and outcome page.
Reporting basis: official information available on 22 September 2026. Illustrative image: photo by Yusuf Gündüz on Unsplash.