£1.5m miscarriage framework launched to improve care

The Scottish Government has launched its £1.5 million framework to improve care for couples who suffer a miscarriage.

Described as a “real milestone” by a leading charity, the framework will set out actions health boards can take, including providing a private space for those who have lost a baby so they do not have to remain on a maternity ward, as well as introducing a more tailored approach to care.

Public health minister Jenni Minto said: “The loss of a baby, no matter at what stage of pregnancy, has a profound and lasting impact on women and their families.

“To all who have experienced such a tragedy, I offer my deepest sympathy.

“The Scottish Government recognises this impact and is clear that women and families who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss must be provided with the right information, care and support, tailored to their individual circumstances.

“I am very grateful to everyone in Scotland’s NHS who works to provide miscarriage care and support.

“I know there is already a lot of good work under way within NHS boards to improve miscarriage care services.

“The 2025-26 Budget, if approved by Parliament, will provide £1.5 million to support NHS boards to improve delivery of sensitive and compassionate miscarriage care.”

Kath Abrahams, chief executive of pregnancy charity Tommy’s, said: “We are delighted to see the delivery framework for miscarriage care in Scotland launching today.

“The framework is a real milestone on the path to excellent care for women and families in Scotland and Tommy’s has been pleased to work closely with our colleagues in Scottish Government as they have developed the framework, which aims to ensure the right support and care for parents after every tragic loss.

“With compassionate care at its heart, we are looking forward to continuing to support our Scottish colleagues as they oversee the rollout.”

In an emotive and consensual debate in Holyrood on Thursday, several MSPs spoke of their own experience of miscarriage.

Vicki Robinson, chief executive of the Miscarriage Association, hailed the framework as a “significant step forward”, adding: “This framework is a vital step in providing evidence-based care and offering women additional support in early pregnancy.

“We are proud to have contributed to its development and look forward to seeing it bring positive change. This is a crucial milestone in ensuring that miscarriage care is accessible, equitable, and compassionate across Scotland.”