In England, when a pregnancy passes 24 weeks and the baby sadly dies before it is born, it is called a stillbirth. A stillbirth will usually need to be registered within 42 days.
If a baby sadly dies before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it is legally known as a miscarriage and will not go through the stillbirth registration process.
Stillbirth registration
In the rare event that you have not heard from a registrar within 2 working days, please email civil.registration@bedford.gov.uk and include the below details:
- your name
- your telephone number
- your relationship to the child
We will call you as quickly as we can and guide you through the registration process.
Who can register a stillbirth?
Please visit GOV.UK to find out who can register a stillbirth.
Request a baby loss certificate
If your pregnancy ends before 24 weeks, you can get a certificate in memory of your baby. The certificate is free.
You do not need to request a certificate if you prefer not to. It’s optional.
Get support and advice
The following organisations are experienced in working alongside families and will be able to offer support and advice: