Response to consultation on leave for bereavement, including pregnancy loss

UNISON argues that bereavement leave should be inclusive, flexible and compassionate.
Date posted: 14 January 2026

UNISON response

Bereavement policies should allow flexibility in when and how leave is taken, recognising that grief and practical arrangements such as funerals can vary widely.

Leave should apply to a wide range of relationships, recognising that grief is not limited to legal family ties.  Support following pregnancy loss should also extend beyond the person who experienced the pregnancy.

We are calling for a minimum of two weeks’ paid bereavement leave, with flexibility for additional time depending on the circumstances of the loss.About the consultation

About the consultation

UNISON has submitted a response to the UK government consultation on leave for bereavement, including pregnancy loss, which forms part of the government’s wider “Make Work Pay” programme and Employment Rights Bill reforms. 

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