Northern Ireland

Some women from Northern Ireland seeking free abortions in England will be helped with travel costs

Details of how a scheme introducing free abortions in England to women from Northern Ireland have been revealed
Details of how a scheme introducing free abortions in England to women from Northern Ireland have been revealed Details of how a scheme introducing free abortions in England to women from Northern Ireland have been revealed

WOMEN on low incomes from Northern Ireland seeking free abortions in England will be helped with their travel and accommodation costs, the British government has announced.

A central telephone booking system through which women will be able to arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional in England is also to be introduced before the end of the year.

The announcement was made yesterday by British equalities minister Justine Greening, just days before the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the 1967 Abortion Act.

The 1967 Act legalising abortions was never extended to Northern Ireland, where it is only allowed if a woman's life is at risk or there is a permanent or serious risk to her physical or mental health.

In June, the Westminster government made the landmark announcement that it intended to fund free terminations for women from the north.

Around 700 women travel to England from Northern Ireland each year for abortions, with costs ranging between £200 and £1,400.

Ms Greening detailed the plans for the scheme, with women seeking medical support eligible for a consultation, the abortion procedure and HIV or STI testing if appropriate.

Women earning less than £15,276, or in receipt of income support, can also apply for funding to cover flights and accommodation.