Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has called for improved miscarriage support in Northern Ireland, saying many women are currently not receiving the compassionate care needed.
“Babyloss is traumatic enough but I am aghast at the many women who, like me, were not provided with follow-up support, especially in relation to grief. While the Department of Health claims its bereavement guidance covers all areas, I would challenge them to produce a monitoring report to confirm how effective it actually is.
“The Department does not record how many miscarriages there are in Northern Ireland, with only the women who miscarry in hospital recorded. I have therefore submitted a motion to the Assembly calling for a register to be created recording all miscarriages, as well as the establishment of a comprehensive bereavement care pathway, and the creation of a national day of mourning on October 15 to mark Babyloss Awareness Week.
“Due to the political impasse, this motion cannot be brought forward at this time. But when the Assembly returns, I will bring it forward as soon as possible, so the many women who suffer this tragedy do not have their hurt compounded any more.”
