Finance Minister John O'Dowd and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt have joined Sands, the pregnancy and baby loss charity, in marking Baby Loss Awareness Week 2025, which runs from Wednesday, 9 October to Tuesday, 15 October.

The annual event is an opportunity for the baby loss community to come together to remember and commemorate their lost babies.

Minister O'Dowd used the occasion to commit to the speedy introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme in Northern Ireland, a move welcomed by Sands.

He thanked the over 1,100 individuals and organisations who shared their views during the public consultation, which closed in September. He stated that the valuable insights gained will "help shape a scheme that truly meets the needs of those affected." Minister O'Dowd's officials are now analysing the responses, after which he will publish the consultation report and bring forward the necessary legislation to the Assembly.

He reiterated his intention that the Scheme will be introduced "as soon as possible," offering parents a meaningful way for their grief to be formally acknowledged and recognised.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt fully endorsed the work being undertaken by the Department of Finance. He acknowledged the "profound emotional impact" of pregnancy and baby loss and reaffirmed his Department's commitment to listening to those with lived experience and ensuring support services are responsive.

Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands, thanked the Ministers for their support, noting that baby loss certificates have already provided official recognition to bereaved parents in England and Scotland. She expressed hope that parents in Northern Ireland will "soon be able to apply for a similar recognition of their loss, acknowledging their pain and ensuring they feel heard."