Overview

• The National Police Chiefs’ Council issued guidance in January 2025 authorizing police to investigate pregnancy losses suspected to involve illegal abortions.
• Officers can search homes for abortion drugs and review digital devices, including period-tracking and fertility apps, to assess a woman's awareness of her pregnancy.
• Medical professionals' concerns often trigger investigations, which are said to proceed only when credible information suggests criminal activity.
• The guidance has been condemned by medical organizations and app providers, with Clue and Flo pledging not to share user data with authorities.
• Parliament is preparing to vote later this year on a Criminal Justice Bill amendment to decriminalize abortion and address outdated laws from the 1861 Offences Against the Person Act.