HMRC published a screening equality impact assessment on 6 April 2026 for Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay in Northern Ireland. The assessment evaluates the policy's potential impacts on protected characteristics under equality legislation, supporting enhancement of parental leave and pay provisions including miscarriage and day-one rights to bereavement pay.

This screening document does not establish immediate compliance obligations for employers. It represents an early stage in policy development, signaling ongoing work to expand parental bereavement pay rights in Northern Ireland. Employers should monitor for subsequent policy proposals and potential implementation timelines as the government continues its assessment process.