Holding space during Baby Loss Awareness Week (9–16 October)

On the 9th of October, we’re pausing to honour Baby Loss Awareness Week and the work of Sands (the stillbirth and neonatal death charity). Many of us carry stories, our own or those of people we love, of pregnancies that ended too soon and babies who aren’t here to hold. Grief like this can be quiet and complicated. It doesn’t always have the words it needs.

We have chosen to support Sands this week because they support bereaved parents and families, train professionals, and push for change to reduce baby deaths. Their work is practical and deeply human: a helpline answered; a memory box offered; better care in hospitals; better data and research; a community that says you’re not alone.

If you want to take part this week, here are gentle, meaningful ways to show up:

• Contribute to our Social Change Nest Fundraiser for Sands.
• Join the Wave of Light on 15 October: Light a candle at 7pm and hold a moment for babies who have died and the families who love them.
• Learn and listen: Read a story, follow parents and charities who share their experiences, and let that shape the way you speak and support.
• Choose your words with care: “I’m here” and “I’m so sorry” go further than advice. Avoid fixing; offer presence.
• Make space at work: If you manage people, remember that grief doesn’t keep office hours. Flexibility, clear signposting to support, and kindness matter.

For anyone marking this week: we see you. Whether your grief is fresh or many years old, whether you name it publicly or hold it close.. If it’s helpful, Sands provides information and support, including a helpline and online community.

We plan to use this week to practice the kind of care we want to see all year round – quiet, consistent, and grounded in compassion.

In solidarity,
Esther and the SCN team.