Parents in Northern Ireland who have experienced pregnancy loss before 24 weeks can now apply for a baby loss certificate, a scheme launched on Monday by the Department of Finance.

Applications are being accepted through the NI Direct website. Finance Minister John O'Dowd described the introduction of the certificates as one of the most significant achievements of his mandate. He acknowledged that such a certificate cannot erase grief but expressed hope that formal recognition might offer some comfort.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt welcomed the scheme, calling it a simple but deeply important step. He said official acknowledgement can mean a great deal to families, recognising that their baby existed and is remembered.

Kelly Barnes, a volunteer with the charity Sands who has had multiple pregnancy losses before 24 weeks, said the certificate helps carry some of the emotional weight by officially commemorating the loss. Sands chief executive Clea Harmer added that having the choice to apply is important, as the certificates can be part of the bereavement journey.

Belfast mother Ellie Goan, who had two miscarriages, said she applied within minutes of receiving the link. She described the day as emotional and spoke of many tears during the process.

The certificates are not legal documents and are optional. Similar schemes already operate in England and Scotland, and work is under way in Wales.

Pregnancy loss before 24 weeks is the most common complication of pregnancy, affecting around one in five women. Unlike stillbirths after 24 weeks, these earlier losses have not previously had a formal registration process in Northern Ireland.