Registering a Still-birth in Scotland
A still-birth that takes place in Scotland can be registered at any registration office. This should be done within 21 days of the still-birth. In special circumstances a short postponement can be arranged by contacting the registrar.
Who can register a still-birth?
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If the parents of the still-born child are married to each other, either parent can register the still-birth
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If the parents of the still-born child are not married to each other, the mother of the child may register the still-birth herself. If the father's details are to be included he must attend the registration office with her. This is necessary as he must jointly sign the register with the mother
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If both parents cannot attend together please contact the registrar for further advice
Documents to be produced to the registrar when registering a still-birth
You should take with you:
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The certificate of still-birth (Form 6) issued by the doctor or midwife;
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The marriage certificate of the child's parents if married to each other (if available).
If no certificate of still-birth is produced, the registrar will ask mother/father to sign a form of declaration as to the still-birth on Form 7.
Recording a name for a still-born child
A forename and surname may be entered in the register if the parent(s) desire.
Documents the registrar will give you
After registration has taken place the registrar will issue:
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A certificate of registration of still-birth (Form 8). This should be given to the Funeral Director or person in charge of the burial ground/ crematorium
There is no fee for registration. One extract will be supplied free of charge to the parent(s) if requested at the time of registration or within one month from the date of registration.
If an extract is not requested at the time the parent(s) may obtain one from the registrar, up to one month from the date of registration, free of charge. Thereafter the statutory fee of £15.00 for an extract will apply. An extract of a still-birth registration can be obtained from your registration office for the remainder of the year of registration, thereafter application must be made to :-
The Registrar General's Office
New Register House
Edinburgh
EH1 3YT.
Support for bereaved parents
The Still-births and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS) provides support for bereaved parents whose baby has died at or soon after birth.
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