She was speaking after Minister Poots revealed in communication with her that charities and community groups are expected to provide support – confirming no Health Trust currently invests any financial support or guidance to ensure appropriate care is available.
Councillor Kellie Armstrong said: “I have had multiple miscarriages over many years. I know first-hand the grief and despair that can affect a mother, her partner and the wider family following a loss.
“Given one in four pregnancies in Northern Ireland end in miscarriage I believe it is time DHSSPS had a Miscarriage Strategy. This Strategy must include a care plan for mothers to ensure not only their physical needs are met but also appropriate support is provided or signposted to help the long term mental health problems that can result including depression.
“I was fortunate in that I found support through ‘Remember our Child’, a community group full of volunteers who had each had loss. The Minister has confirmed there is no package of funding set aside to ensure this area of women’s health receives appropriate investment. This investment can include support for fathers whose grieving process is just as painful and isolating.
“On behalf of all mothers and fathers who have lost children through miscarriage I ask Minister Poots to ensure appropriate investment is ring fenced within budgets to ensure Health Trusts do provide support for families during what is an extremely sad and lonely time.”