Orlagh Kelly

Briefed — a UK-wide company founded and led by three Northern Ireland barristers — is supporting the campaign led by English family lawyer Keeley Lengthorn, who has suffered the heartbreak of losing three children in the space of three years.

Ms Lengthorn, a partner at Taylor Rose MW Solicitors, began campaigning for ‘George’s Law’ after her most recent miscarriage in March 2022. She proposes that parents who lose a baby under 24 weeks should have a statutory entitlement to three days’ paid leave from work.

Briefed has launched a new online training platform aimed at helping employees navigate a return-to-work after experiencing a baby loss.

Commenting on the launch, Ms Lengthorn said: “I am indebted to the whole team at Briefed for collaborating with me on my mission to legislate “Georges Law” and to raise awareness generally of baby loss.

“This training is informed, easily navigated, and provides both employers and employees with tools at their fingertips to assist employees who have suffered a baby loss.

“I’m eager to launch this and hope that businesses will use this and other training courses provided by Briefed to assist their workforce during what can be a really difficult period for some returning to work.”

She added: “I am determined to help bring about a change in the law. But this could take time. This training will help provide support right now to many employees who need it and for that reason it really can be a lifeline. I urge all businesses to make use of it.”

Orlagh Kelly, barrister and CEO of Briefed, said: “Keeley’s story resonates with me personally, and with many other barristers, solicitors, colleagues and friends.

“That’s why I’m so grateful that Briefed now has the opportunity to raise awareness of the difficulties bereaved parents face navigating their workplace after a loss.

“We want this training and resource toolkit to ignite conversations on how employers and colleagues can support each other and implement common sense policies to create a safer and kinder work environment.”