Register a stillbirth

A stillbirth should be registered within 42 days.

What is a stillbirth?

A stillbirth is the death of a baby after 24 weeks of pregnancy, before or during birth.

The loss of a baby before 24 weeks can not be registered as a stillbirth. Parents can apply for a Baby Loss Certificate if they have experienced a loss under 24 weeks, further information can be found at www.gov.uk/request-baby-loss-certificate

 

Who can register a stillbirth?

You can use the GOV.UK register a stillbirth tool to find out who can register a stillbirth or contact our office for further advice - 01429 523337

 

How do I register a stillbirth?

Stillbirths are registered in the district where they took place. If the stillbirth occurred in Hartlepool you can complete the registration at our office. If the stillbirth occurred elsewhere in England or Wales you can attend our office to complete a stillbirth declaration; this will then be sent to the relevant register office for the stillbirth to be registered.

 

What information will I be asked to provide?

You will be asked:

  • the place and date of the stillbirth
  • name and surname of baby, if given (please note a name cannot be added at a later date)
  • parents' names and surnames (including mother’s maiden name if applicable)
  • parents' occupations, addresses and places of birth (as appropriate)

It is helpful to bring documents to your appointment so the correct spellings of all names and addresses are recorded. This could be a passport, driving licence, utility bill, birth or marriage certificate. 

Do not worry if any of these documents are not available, the registrar can still register the stillbirth.

It is important that the information entered into the register is right as mistakes can be difficult to correct and will incur a fee of up to £90.

If English is not your first language we request that you bring someone along with you to translate - they do not have to be a professional, they can be a friend or family member.

 

How much does it cost?

There is no fee to register a stillbirth. 

If the stillbirth took place in Hartlepool the registrar will issue the documents you will need to arrange a funeral, there is no fee for this paperwork. A stillbirth certificate will be issued free of charge. Additional certificates can purchased if required. 

Certificate fees

If the stillbirth occurred elsewhere in England or Wales the relevant office will be able to advise you about certificates and applicable fees.