We are sorry if you are reading this because of a loss. This page sets out what the law in Northern Ireland gives you, so you can ask for it without having to research it.
Quick facts
- Leave
- Up to 2 weeks
- Pay
- Up to £194.32 a week
- Covers
- A child under 18, stillbirth after 24 weeks, miscarriage before 24 weeks
- Miscarriage
- If on or after 6 April 2026
- Length of service
- Not needed
- Take within
- 56 weeks
What changed in April 2026
From 6 April 2026, Northern Ireland extended the right to a miscarriage before 24 weeks. The miscarriage must have happened, or been discovered, on or after that date.
It covers the person who had the miscarriage and their partner, including after IVF, an ectopic or molar pregnancy, or the loss of one twin. You do not need to share any details or give medical evidence.
The leave
You can take two weeks together, two separate weeks, or one week. A week means the number of days you normally work.
It does not matter how long you have worked for your employer. The leave must be taken within 56 weeks of the death, stillbirth or miscarriage.
The pay
Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay is £194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower. It is paid like your wages, with tax and National Insurance taken off.
You must be employed on the day of the loss and earn on average £129 or more a week before tax. If you are new and have no full pay history, your employer must make a fair estimate of what you normally earn.
How to ask for it
- For leave in the first 8 weeks, tell your employer before you would normally start work on the first day off
- For leave from week 9 to week 56, give at least one week's notice
- A phone call, voicemail, text or email is enough for leave, and you do not need proof of the loss
- For pay, ask in writing within 28 days of the first day of the week you are claiming for, and complete a one-off declaration
Common questions
Can I get Parental Bereavement Leave after a miscarriage in Northern Ireland?
Yes, if the miscarriage happened before 24 weeks and on or after 6 April 2026. Your partner can qualify too.
How much is Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay in Northern Ireland?
£194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower.
Do I need to have worked for my employer for a while?
No. The leave applies from your first day. For the pay, you must earn on average £129 or more a week, and your employer estimates this if you are new.
Do I have to give my employer medical evidence?
No. You declare that you are entitled. You do not have to share details or give proof.