A still-born child is a child born after the 24th week of pregnancy who did not breathe or show any other signs of life. When a child is still-born the midwife or doctor will issue a medical certificate of stillbirth which is required for registration.
A stillbirth should be registered within 42 days.
Where do you register a stillbirth?
A stillbirth which has taken place in Oldham should be registered at the Oldham Register Office. Please book an appointment and we will get in touch with you.
Who can register?
Either parent provided they were married to each other at the time of the stillbirth. If the parents were not married and they wish to include father's details, both parents should be present.
In addition to the medical certificate issued by the midwife or doctor, you will need to provide the following information:
- the date and place of the stillbirth
- any names the parent(s) wish to give the baby
- mother's full name (and father's full name, if applicable), place of birth, occupation and usual address
- mother's maiden name (if applicable)
You will receive these documents after registration
- A certificate for burial or cremation
- this is required by the funeral director - A certificate of registration
- this certificate is proof of registration and shows the date of the still-birth and any names given to the child - A stillbirth certificate
- a certified copy of all the details held in the register is also available
Make an appointment to register a stillbirth
The Baby Loss Certificate Service
This service was launched in February 2024.
It's a voluntary scheme to support parents who have experienced a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. Although the certificate is an important acknowledgement of a life lost, it is not a legal document.
Either parent can apply for a Baby Loss Certificate if they have experienced a loss under 24 weeks since 1 September 2018; are at least 16 years of age; currently live in England and were living in England at the time of the loss.