Births, deaths and ceremonies Frequently asked questions for a still birth

How do I register a still birth?

We aim to make the registration process as quick and easy as possible at this difficult time. If the still birth occurred in Shropshire, you can book an appointment to register the still birth. You can also contact us on 0345 678 9016 or email registrars@shropshire.gov.uk so that we can arrange an appointment for you to register the still-birth. The still-birth must be registered within 42 days.

The parents would need to attend the appointment, the medical certificate of cause of still birth will be sent to us from the hospital. If you don’t have these, or the still birth has been referred to the Coroner, please call us on 0345 678 9016 and we can advise you of the process.

Where are the register offices?

Find your nearest registration service point on our website.

Do I need an appointment to register a still birth?

Yes you can, please call us on 0345 678 9016 or email registrars@shropshire.gov.uk

What documentation do I need to bring to the appointment?

There's nothing you need to bring as the hospital will provide the medical certificate of cause of still birth.

Who can attend to register a still birth?

Only the parents may register a still birth. If the parents were not married or in a civil partnership at the time of the still birth, both parents will be required to attend the appointment. We regret that the law doesn’t allow friends or other relatives to register on your behalf.

What should I do if it is almost 42 days since the still birth occurred?

We'll still see you as soon as possible. Please contact us on 0345 678 9016 or email registrars@shropshire.gov.uk

What documentation will be issued to me after the registration?

At the end of the appointment, the registrar will be able to give you a Certificate of Registration, and a document allowing the burial or cremation to proceed. There is a statutory fee of £12.50 to obtain any full copies of the still birth certificate which can be paid at the appointment.

The still birth did not occur in Shropshire. Can I still register in Shropshire?

If it's not possible to attend at the register office in the district in which the still birth occurred you can register the still birth at any other register office in England or Wales by declaration. 

How can I correct an error on a still birth certificate, or obtain duplicate certificates after the registration?

You should contact us on 0345 678 9016.