Having last week met with a local businesswoman and author to hear more about her experience of baby loss, today in the Senedd Chamber Clwyd West MS Darren Millar called for baby loss certificates to be made available in Wales. 

Last Friday, Darren met with Melanie Gizzi, founder of OMG Fabulous, who has written a chapter in the recently published ‘She Empowers’ book, in which she talks about her pregnancy journey, which included fertility treatment and ectopic pregnancies. 

'She Empowers' is a powerful anthology bringing together ten amazing women, each sharing their own uplifting stories.

During their meeting, Darren and Melanie spoke about the importance of raising awareness about women’s experiences of baby loss.  

This week is Baby Loss Awareness Week and in today’s Business Statement, Darren expressed concern that baby loss certificates are available in England and Scotland, but not in Wales. 

He said:    

“It is Baby Loss Awareness Week this week, and I've been contacted by a number of constituents, including the author in my constituency, Melanie Gizzi, to hear about their experiences with baby loss. 

“One of the things that they have raised concerns about is the unavailability of baby loss certificates, unfortunately, here in Wales. I know that these have been available in Scotland since last October, and indeed in England since February, and I think it is time that Wales caught up on this front. 

“I would be grateful if a formal statement could be made by the Welsh Government on its approach to baby loss certificates to make sure that those who've suffered such painful experiences in Wales can have the opportunity to have a baby loss certificate in recognition of their loss.” 

Speaking afterwards, Darren said: 

“Having spoken to Melanie only a few days ago, I have a much greater understanding of the devastating impact of baby loss on people’s lives and why obtaining a baby loss certificate is so important to these parents. 

“Melanie is a remarkable woman and she tells her story so well in the new ‘She Empowers’ book. 

“In spite of the difficulties she has faced in her life, she is now helping others through her business OMG FABULOUS, which aims to help women ‘feel fab on the inside and out’. 

“Last year she opened StudiOMG, the home of OMG FABULOUS, which covers everything from life coaching to beauty, all centering around self-care and wellness.

“StudiOMG is based at 1 Water Steeet, Abergele, and I encourage women in the area to take advantage of the services it provides.” 

To find out more follow ‘OMG Melanie Gizzi’ on Facebook.  

ENDS  

Watch Darren’s contribution in the Welsh Parliament below: