The government recently consulted on the introduction of day-one right to unpaid leave for employees who experience the loss of a loved one, including pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, as part of legislation introduced by the Employment Rights Act 2025.

The consultation sought views on eligibility criteria, when and how bereavement leave can be taken, notice and evidence requirements, and access the government's consultation document. NHS Employers sought feedback from employer engagement networks to gather views.

NHS Employers said: ‘Employers were broadly supportive of enhancing statutory bereavement rights but stressed the need for flexibility, compassion, and alignment with existing NHS frameworks.

'A consistent message was that bereavement is highly individual, and while legislation and policy provide structure, flexibility and sensitivity to personal circumstances must remain central.'

 

The consultation closed on 15 January, the government is currently analysing feedback and will publish a response in due course.