Every October, Baby Loss Awareness Week brings families and communities together to remember lives lost too soon, raise awareness, and call for better support.
Why it Matters
Sadly, baby loss is more common than many realise:
1 in 5 pregnancies in the UK ends in miscarriage.
In 2023 there were 2,545 stillbirths and 1,933 neonatal deaths in the UK.
A 2023 survey found half of UK adults have been personally affected by pregnancy or baby loss.
In Essex, NHS data shows that families continue to experience losses every month across local maternity units. Behind each number is a grieving family who deserves compassion and support.
Support & Change
Grief from baby loss can have lasting effects, with around 1 in 5 parents experiencing PTSD or prolonged depression after their loss. Support networks, remembrance services, and counselling can make a real difference.
Progress is being made nationallyโsuch as calls for bereavement leave after miscarriageโbut community-based support remains vital.
How Essex Can Help
Find support: Families can use www.essexmap.co.uk to discover local groups and services.
Offer support: If your organisation provides help for bereaved families, please add your details to the mapโitโs free and ensures no one has to search alone.
๐ช๐ผ๐ฟ๐น๐ฑ ๐ฆ๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ฎ๐ โ ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ – let’s stand together to raise awareness, break the stigma, and remind everyone that help is always available.
ย
If you or someone you know is struggling, find local support services on The Essex Map
ย
If your group or organisation provides support around suicide prevention or mental health, please add your details to the Essex Map โ or email communications@essexalliance.org.uk so more people can find the help they need.
PTSD affects people from all walks of life โ veterans, survivors, emergency responders, and everyday people whoโve faced trauma.
On this important day, letโs raise awareness, show support, and make sure help is easy to find.
๐ป At www.essexmap.co.uk, you can discover local mental health services, support groups, and community initiatives that offer a safe space for those affected by PTSD and other mental health challenges.
โจ Are you part of a group or service that supports people with PTSD in Essex?
List it on the Essex Map to reach more people who need you.
Together, we can help break the stigma and build a stronger, more supportive community. ๐
Whether you’re completing your Duke of Edinburgh Award, gaining work experience, or simply want to give back to your community, there’s a perfect role waiting for you!
Explore local volunteering opportunities on The Essex Map and find ways to make a difference near you.
