WHAT CAN FRIENDS AND FAMILY DO TO HELP PARENTS WHO HAVE LOST A BABY?

TALK ABOUT THEIR BABY

WHEN someone’s baby has died it can be hard for others to find the words to say. This can add to feelings of isolation, so simply saying how sorry you are can really help. Say the baby’s name if you know it; if you don’t, then ask. Ask them if they’d like to tell you about the baby.

LET THEM KNOW YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT THEM

A SIMPLE text, card or email goes a long way. If you know them well, you could call them and ask how they are.

OFFER PRACTICAL HELP

WHEN a baby dies it can be very hard for parents to do everyday tasks such as walking the dog, shopping or cleaning. Offer to help in a practical way.

HELP A COLLEAGUE

IF a colleague’s baby has died you may want to let them know how sorry you are. If you’re an employer, find out how best to support your staff.

HELP THEM ACCESS INFORMATION AND SUPPORT

ANYONE affected by the death of a baby can get information and support from the Sands website, where there’s access to immediate counselling via the helpline ( 0808 164 3332 and helpline@sands.org.uk), the Sands Online Community ( sands.community/login), the Facebook closed support group ( facebook.com/groups/ SandsSupportGroup), or the Sands Bereavement Support App ( sands.org.uk/about-sands/ sands-bereavement-supportapp).

In addition, there’s the Sands Bereavement Support Book ( sands.org.uk/ sands-bereavementsupport-book). Loving You From Here: Stories of Grief, Hope and Growth When a Baby Dies by SANDS with Susan Clark is published by Yellow Kite, £16.99.