New statutory bereavement and pregnancy loss leave from April 2027

Government confirms new bereavement leave for close family loss and unpaid leave for pre 24 week pregnancy loss from April 2027.

The government has confirmed new rights to take time off work following a bereavement. From April 2027 there will be a right to bereavement leave for employees who lose a spouse or partner, parent, adult child or sibling. It will also include step, half, adoptive, kinship care and foster relationships.

Women and their partners who experience a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks including miscarriage, terminations and unsuccessful IVF embryo transfers will be entitled to up to two weeks of unpaid leave. This also applies to partners, the other biological parent, or intended parents in a surrogacy arrangement.