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Registering a stillbirth

Stillbirth is an extremely traumatic experience and it is essential that the process of registering a stillbirth is made as trouble-free as possible.

Our Registrar's office will be pleased to deal with any queries you may have.

Call us on 028 9027 0274 for more information.

When should I register a stillbirth?

A stillbirth should be registered as soon as possible to allow funeral arrangements to go ahead.

It should not be registered later than five days from the date of death, except where the matter has been referred to the Coroner.

Who can register a stillbirth?

The following people can register a stillbirth:

• the mother or father of the baby, if you are a married couple
• maternal grandfather of the baby
• maternal grandmother of the baby
• maternal uncle of the baby
• maternal aunt of the baby
• occupier of the premises where the stillbirth took place, for example, a governor or matron
• any person present at the stillbirth.

What information will I need to bring with me?

You will need a medical certificate which shows the cause of the stillbirth.

This is usually issued to the child's relatives by a medical doctor.

What details are needed to register a stillbirth?

You will need the following details to register a stillbirth:

• full name and surname of the baby
• date and place of death
• usual address
• full names and occupations of the baby's mother and father.

Please note that a registration cannot be easily changed once completed.

Where can I register a stillbirth?

You can register a stillbirth in the district where the stillbirth occurred or in the district where the child's mother usually lives.

Why do I have to register a stillbirth?

By law, all stillbirths that take place in Northern Ireland must be registered.