From 9 to 15 October, the UK marks Baby Loss Awareness Week — a time to reflect, remember, and support all families who have experienced the devastating loss of a baby.
Whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal loss, or infant death, baby loss affects many families. For many parents, this grief is carried quietly and privately, often unspoken. Baby Loss Awareness Week provides a dedicated time to raise awareness, to start conversations, and to help families feel less alone.
Breaking the Silence
Baby loss is far more common than most people realise, yet it remains one of the most difficult topics to talk about. Many parents grieve in silence, unsure of how to express their pain or fearful that others will not understand.
This week helps to break that silence. It reminds us that speaking about loss does not increase the pain; rather, it can help ease isolation. Sharing memories, lighting candles, or simply saying a baby’s name are small but powerful ways to acknowledge love and loss together.
Grief That Changes, But Never Disappears
Grief after baby loss does not follow a clear timeline. It changes over time but remains part of a family’s story. Anniversaries, due dates, or other reminders can bring strong emotions, even many years later.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Some people find comfort in talking; others may prefer private reflection. What matters most is allowing space for whatever feels true — sadness, anger, confusion, love, or hope. Each emotion has its place in healing.
Supporting Someone Through Baby Loss
If you know someone who has experienced the loss of a baby, there are gentle ways to offer support.
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Acknowledge their loss and, if you know it, use their baby’s name.
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Listen without judgment and without trying to find the perfect words.
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Avoid well-meant phrases like “everything happens for a reason.” Compassion and presence mean more than advice.
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Remember important dates and check in around those times.
Simple acts of kindness can make a lasting difference for grieving families.
The Wave of Light – 15 October
Baby Loss Awareness Week concludes on 15 October with the global Wave of Light, a collective moment of remembrance.
At 7pm, people around the world light candles in memory of all the babies who have died too soon. As lights shine across homes and communities, they create a wave of remembrance that connects families in love and solidarity.
You can take part by lighting a candle, sharing a photo, or simply pausing for a moment of quiet reflection.
You Are Not Alone
If you are grieving the loss of a baby, please know that you are not alone. Support is available through counselling, peer groups, and organisations such as:
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Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) – www.sands.org.uk
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The Miscarriage Association – www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk
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Tommy’s – www.tommys.org
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The Lullaby Trust – www.lullabytrust.org.uk
Grief is a reflection of love, and love does not fade with time. This Baby Loss Awareness Week, we remember all the babies who are no longer with us and hold close the families whose hearts carry them always.