Summary
An 18-year-old girl from Northern Ireland, referred to as Olivia, was mistakenly sent to England for an abortion. Despite abortion services being available in Northern Ireland up to 24 weeks, confusion led to this unnecessary trip. The experience was described as traumatic by her mother.
Key Facts
- Olivia, an 18-year-old girl, was sent to England for an abortion due to a booking error.
- Abortion services are available in Northern Ireland up to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
- Olivia was 18 weeks pregnant and could have undergone the procedure in Northern Ireland.
- The booking mistake caused her to travel unnecessarily, adding to her distress.
- Olivia had to wait for her return flight while experiencing bleeding and cramping.
- Confusion around available services and a lack of public information contributed to the issue.
- In 2023, 145 women from Northern Ireland traveled to England or Wales for abortions.
- The British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) directed Olivia to England instead of referring to local services.
