Why register a stillbirth?

By law all stillbirths occurring in Northern Ireland must be registered. A stillbirth should be registered as soon as possible to allow funeral arrangements to go ahead but no later than five days from the date of occurrence except where the matter has been referred to the Coroner.

What do you need in order to register?

The person registering the stillbirth must go to the Registrar as soon as possible with a medical certificate of cause of stillbirth. This is usually issued to the relatives by a doctor.

Who can register a stillbirth?

• the mother of the baby
• the father of the baby (of a legitimate child only)
• any aunt, uncle, grandfather and grandmother of the baby who has knowledge of the stillbirth. the occupier of the premises where the stillbirth occurred i.e. governor, matron etc. or a person present at the stillbirth.

What details are required?

Full name and surname of the baby Date and place of death and usual address Full names and occupations of the mother and father Please note that a registration cannot be easily changed once completed

Where can the stillbirth be registered?

With the Registrar: either in the Registrar's district where the stillbirth occurred or in the Registrar's district where the mother lives.