A government scheme offering certificates to parents who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks was launched on June 22.

The Baby Loss Certificate scheme, introduced by the Department of Finance, allows families to apply for formal acknowledgment of their loss. Certificates can be issued regardless of how long ago the loss occurred.

The initiative was raised at a meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council by DUP Alderman Chelsea Cooke. She told colleagues the issue was deeply personal because her sister lost a baby at 22 weeks and five days.

Alderman Cooke described the baby, named Mark, as perfect with ten fingers and ten toes. She said she had witnessed firsthand the lasting impact of the loss on her sister and their family. While no certificate can ease the pain or replace what was lost, she said, it provides meaningful recognition of a baby who was loved and wanted. Formal acknowledgment, she added, brings comfort and validation to many families.

Sinn Fein councillor Aisling Hutton commended Alderman Cooke for sharing her story. She said the certificates would help mitigate some of the trauma experienced by bereaved parents. Councillor Hutton welcomed the scheme, thanked long-standing campaigners and acknowledged the work of Finance Minister John O’Dowd in delivering it.

Baby loss certificates are designed to offer a compassionate and dignified way to recognise the pregnancies of parents and ensure their babies are not forgotten.