Genealogy Chat

I understand there is a register of stillborns and that they are not always on the births and deaths can anyone help

The stillborn register is 'closed' - for details look at the GRO website

By definition, stillborn children are not 'born' in the accepted sense of the word, and do not die.

If a child takes even one independent breath, there will be a birth cert and a death cert.

I was told that years ago, if the baby survived 24hours +, a birth and death were recorded. If it died in the first 24 hours, it was classed as stillborn. Can't find my notes on it, but it was when I ordered a stillborn record. I think the records are held portsmouth, but this needs to be verified a I am not 100% sure.

Flick's correct - one can find cemetery records where the age at death is well under 24 hrs, and there will be a matching b & d.rego.

Normally, only the parents can access the stillbirth register. However, if they're both dead, then siblings (and maybe grandparents - I forget) can access that register.

The stillbirth register is kept at the GRO at Southport - the same place as births, deaths and marriages - only separate and not open to the general public.

My husband's baby brother died in the 1940's at 12 hours old and we have his birth, death and burial records, so I don't think the "less than 24 hours" theory is correct.

Kath. x

A still-born child is legally defined as a child born after the 24th week of pregnancy who did not at any time after being born breathe or show any other signs of life.

A medical certificate of still-birth will be issued by the doctor or midwife who examined the body or was present at the time of the birth.

After registration, one or more certificates may be bought by the mother. The father can only buy certificates if his details are recorded in the register entry.

Any application for a certificate, from someone other than the parents, should be directed to the Registration Office. They will have to specify why the certificate is required.

Hi Susan

Have just ordered a still birth certificate to-day. You need to telephone the Identity & Passport Service on 9845 603 7788 to request a form. Only parents of the still born baby can obtain a certificate unless they have both died then a certificate can be obtained by a sibling as long as you have the dates of birth of the mother and father.

You can also email them at [email protected].

I am hoping that I have got the correct date as they will only search one year either side of the date you give. them

Good luck

Sue

thank you everyone for your help I have now been in touch with the GRO and have the info I need