Our hearts shattered when we lost our beloved daughter, Lois. In our time of need, we were fortunate to work for compassionate employers who granted us the time to grieve and begin our healing journey. However, many parents face harsh realities where their grief is compounded by insufficient bereavement leave, forcing them to return to work just two weeks after enduring an unimaginable loss.

Unlike other countries, such as New Zealand, which provides extended bereavement leaves, current policies in our region fall short, leaving grieving parents struggling to cope with their profound loss as well as the pressures of resuming work almost immediately. Research from the American Psychological Association highlights the psychological impact of such a devastating experience, noting that grieving parents are at a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. Without adequate time to grieve, these mental health challenges are exacerbated.

The UK's parental bereavement leave policy, which provides two weeks of statutory leave, fails to account for the emotional and physical toll of losing a child. Parents deserve more time to process their grief without the added stress of an impending return to work. We propose extending the bereavement leave for parents who have suffered the loss of a child to 12 weeks, allowing adequate time for healing.

This petition calls on employers and lawmakers to acknowledge the unique and profound nature of losing a child by extending bereavement leave provisions. By doing so, we provide parents with the dignity and space to grieve their loss in a healthy and supportive environment. Sign this petition to help bring about compassionate change for grieving parents. Together, we can ensure that no family is rushed through their grieving process.