Written question WQ98124

We are committed to ensuring all families, including children who lose a sibling, receive the high‑quality bereavement support when they need it. We have also invested significantly in specialist perinatal mental health services, with dedicated teams now in place in every health board.

Our National Framework for the Delivery of Bereavement Care sets clear expectations for how organisations should respond to all forms of bereavement. It guides health boards and partners in providing consistent, person‑centred support and in addressing gaps in current provision, including support for children affected by pregnancy or baby loss at or after the 22‑week viability threshold.

Bereavement support is strengthened through Welsh Government funding to third‑sector organisations via the Bereavement Support Grant. Charities such as Cruse Bereavement Support and Sandy Bear use this funding to deliver accessible, specialist services for children and families across Wales who are grieving the loss of a baby.

Implementation of bereavement pathways is monitored through the NHS Performance Framework, with health boards submitting six‑monthly progress reports. We also maintain regular engagement with health boards through the Wales‑wide Bereavement Leads Forum, which promotes consistency, shares best practice, and helps ensure that services continue to evolve in line with the needs of bereaved families.