Petition · Ministry of Justice

Expand eligibility for bereavement damages to adult children

Closed 60 signatures

What the petition asks

Update the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 so adult children can claim bereavement damages for their parent’s death. We feel this current law excludes many families, is outdated, and needs reform to reflect modern family relationships.
Many families may have evidence that their parent’s death was a result of negligence but cannot pursue justice. This can affect countless families in the UK who may face the same unfair legal barrier during the worst moments of their lives. I believe this is an opportunity to modernise the law and ensure bereavement damages are applied in a way that is compassionate, fair, and reflective of real family relationships.

Timeline

15 Jan 2026 Petition opened for signatures
15 Jul 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 60
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 15 Jan 2026
Closed 15 Jul 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 18 Aug 2026.