Peterborough mum says extension of the baby loss certificate project is an important step

A mum in Peterborough says she is shocked that the Governments announcement to extend the baby loss certificate scheme wasn't in place sooner.

It means parents who have experienced the loss of a baby early in pregnancy will now be able to apply to have their child's life officially recognised regardless of how much time has passed.

A ribbon display at Whittlesey’s Garden of Rest has been organised by Adele Mann after losing her daughter Lottie.

To walk past and see my little girl's name on there means she's recognised

Blue and pink ribbons will be on display until Wednesday 16th October and people can add their own throughout the week.

Adele Mann, a mum from Whittlesey, said:

"I think things like this are really important."

"It's just a ribbon on a fence with a child's name on."

"I know it might seem really silly, but to walk past that and see my little girl's name on there means she's recognised."

"I know people who haven't gone through it might think it's a piece of paper, does it really matter?

"It really does matter because it's something a living child gets. You want that for any of your children. We have Lottie's birth and death certificate."

Losing a pregnancy can be deeply distressing

According to the Department of Health and Social Care more than 50,000 documents have been issued so far.

There will now be no time limit on the initiative, with certificates available for any parent who has experienced a loss before 24 weeks, or 28 weeks if the loss occurred before October 1992.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said:

'Losing a pregnancy can be deeply distressing - there is so much love and so many dreams for the future wrapped up in a tiny life.'

'That's why it is important for bereaved parents to have the option to officially recognise the existence of their babies and how much they matter. '

'I'm pleased we can now ensure all parents are able to apply for these certificates, no matter how long ago they lost their pregnancies. '

'This Government will always listen to women and families as we overhaul our health system to ensure everyone gets compassionate, safe and personalised care.'

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