Request a baby loss certificate

You can get a certificate in memory of your baby if your pregnancy ends before 24 weeks (or 28 weeks if your pregnancy ended before 1 October 1992).

It’s free to get a certificate.

You do not need to request a certificate if you prefer not to. It’s optional.

The certificate is not a legal document - for example, you cannot use it to claim benefits. The certificate will not be added to your GP record.

If your pregnancy ends from 24 weeks onwards, you need to register a stillbirth instead.

Before you start

You’ll need:

  • your NHS number or postcode registered with your GP - find your NHS number on the NHS website
  • the mobile phone number or email address registered with your GP
  • permission from the other parent and their email address, if you want their name on the certificate

If the other parent has died, you’ll need to call the Baby loss certificate service.

Request a certificate

You can ask for a certificate if all the following apply:

  • you’ve lost a baby before 24 weeks of pregnancy (or 28 weeks before 1 October 1992)
  • you’re one of the baby’s parents or surrogate
  • you’re at least 16 years old
  • you live in England

Start now

If you’ve lost more than one pregnancy, you can request a separate certificate for each loss. You can do this straight after you have requested your first certificate or later.

Your certificate should arrive in the post within 14 days. If you do not receive it, you can request another certificate.

Get help to request a certificate

If you want your certificate in a different format or cannot request the certificate online, email or call the helpline.

Baby loss certificate service
Email: babylosscertificate@nhsbsa.nhs.uk
Telephone: 0300 330 9445

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges