Co-op has strengthened its pioneering pregnancy loss policy by doubling paid leave from five to ten days, “reinforcing its commitment to support colleagues through the bereavement and grief of pregnancy loss,” it says.
First launched in 2021, Co-op’s policy recognises pregnancy loss as a bereavement - not illness - and provides compassionate, practical help to anyone affected.
The policy applies regardless of length of service, contracted hours, the stage or circumstances of the loss, and supports both parents, including partners and intended parents via surrogacy - a level of inclusivity that remains rare in the UK retail sector.
The update comes following a parliamentary reception yesterday (15 October) in the House of Commons organised by the Miscarriage Association, sponsored by Co-op, and hosted by Sarah Owen MP, Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee - to mark the success of the campaign to introduce statutory bereavement leave for pregnancy loss through the Employment Rights Bill.
The new policy includes:
10 days’ paid bereavement leave as a general guide, with additional flexibility according to individual circumstances.
Paid time off for medical appointments, plus access to counselling and mental health support through Co-op’s colleague wellbeing services, alongside signposting to specialist charities.
Support for managers with guidance to enable sensitive, timely conversations and practical help.
Emergency leave where a colleague’s family member experiences pregnancy loss.
Shirine Khoury-Haq (below left), group CEO, said: “Losing a baby at any stage is devastating, and no one should have to navigate that heartbreak without support. By doubling paid leave for pregnancy loss, we’re giving our colleagues the time and space they need, without added financial or work pressures.
“This is about compassion, fairness and breaking the silence around pregnancy loss. Co-op also welcomes the Employment Rights Bill as a vital step forward and urge swift implementation, clear guidance for employers and - crucially - for more businesses to follow our lead and offer paid leave as standard.”
”Doubling paid leave shows real compassion and sets an important example for other employers to follow.”
Vicki Robinson, Miscarriage Association chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to see the Co-op continue to lead the way in supporting colleagues through pregnancy loss. Doubling paid leave shows real compassion and sets an important example for other employers to follow.
Sarah Owen MP, added: “The Co-op’s decision to double paid leave for pregnancy loss sets an important example for employers across the UK. It shows real leadership and compassion at a time when we need more businesses to step up and recognise the impact of baby loss on families. This is about dignity, fairness and breaking the silence around an issue that affects hundreds of thousands of people every year.”
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