100 signatures reached
To: The National Police Chiefs' Council
Change the NPCC Guidance on Pregnancy Loss Investigations
The change in NPCC guidance on the investigation of unexpected pregnancy losses under the framework of “child death investigations” authorises and encourages intrusive policing practices at a time when women and birthing people are at their most vulnerable and grieving. The guidance includes the seizure of their digital devices, review of fertility app data, and accessing of confidential medical records — without judicial authorisation.
Why is this important?
This guidance is out dated, legally questionable and deeply traumatising to individuals experiencing losses. The surveillance and accusations aimed at grieving women and birthing people is a gross betrayal of public trust, lacks empathy, substance, justification, and needs amending. It is deeply rooted in patriarchal views and reinforces worrying views around policing female bodies. We petition for the NPCC to review and amend the guidance with urgency.
