Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Services

Here’s a list of some support services for parents, friends, and relatives who are affected by pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or the death of a baby. There are so many wonderful organisations and support services out there and knowing where to go whether you yourself have lost a pregnancy or baby, or you want to support someone you know who is navigating this kind of loss and grief experience.

SANDS Australia (Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Newborn Death Support)

SANDS Australia offers emotional support and information for parents and families affected by the loss of a baby during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Their services include telephone support, online forums, and support groups available 24/7. You can visit their website at www.sands.org.au or contact their helpline at 1300 072 637.

Red Nose Grief and Loss

Red Nose Grief and Loss provides free counselling, resources, and information for those affected by the sudden loss of a baby, including stillbirth and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). They offer support through their website at www.rednosegriefandloss.com.au or via their helpline at 1300 308 307.

Bears of Hope

Bears of Hope supports parents and families grieving pregnancy and infant loss, offering services such as support groups, online forums, counselling, and events like ‘Walk to Remember’ and ‘Candle Lighting Ceremonies’. More information can be found at www.bearsofhope.org.au or by calling 1300 11 HOPE (1300 11 4673).

Pink Elephants Support Network

The Pink Elephants Support Network provides peer support, information, and resources for those who experience miscarriage and early pregnancy loss. They also offer support for family and friends. You can access their services at www.pinkelephants.org.au.

The Stillbirth Foundation Australia

The Stillbirth Foundation aims to reduce the incidence of stillbirth through research, advocacy, and education. They provide information and resources for bereaved families and offer guidance on how to support someone who has experienced a stillbirth. Visit their website at www.stillbirthfoundation.org.au for more details.

Heartfelt

Heartfelt is a volunteer organisation that offers free professional photographic services to families who have experienced stillbirth, premature birth, or have critically ill children. Their services are available online at www.heartfelt.org.au.

Australian Breastfeeding Association – Lactation Support After Loss

The Australian Breastfeeding Association provides support to mothers on lactation after pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or infant death. This includes managing milk supply and coping with the emotional aspects of breastfeeding after a loss. You can find support through their website at www.breastfeeding.asn.au or contact them via their helpline at 1800 686 268.

State-Based and Local Support Services

Precious Wings (Queensland)

Precious Wings offers memory boxes and bereavement support for families who have experienced pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or neonatal death. They also organise community events and workshops. More information is available at www.preciouswings.org.

The Compassionate Friends (Victoria)

The Compassionate Friends supports those grieving the loss of a child, including through stillbirth and neonatal death. They provide peer support groups, both in-person and online. Visit their website at www.compassionatefriendsvictoria.org.au or contact them on 03 9888 4944 / 1300 064 068.

H.A.N.D. – Helping After Neonatal Death (NSW)

H.A.N.D. offers peer support, information, and resources for parents and families who have experienced the death of a baby before, during, or shortly after birth. More information can be found at www.hand.org.au.

Pregnancy Loss Australia

Pregnancy Loss Australia offers emotional support, memorial services, and resources for parents and families affected by pregnancy loss and stillbirth. Their services can be accessed online at www.pregnancylossaustralia.org.au or by calling their helpline at 1300 072 637.

Small Miracles Foundation (NSW)

The Small Miracles Foundation provides grief counselling, support groups, and resources for parents experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death. Visit their website at www.smallmiraclesfoundation.org.

Online and Peer Support

Bears of Hope Facebook Support Groups

Bears of Hope runs online peer support groups tailored to different types of loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death) and grief stages. These groups allow parents to connect with others who have experienced similar losses. Learn more on their website at www.bearsofhope.org.au.

SANDS Online Support Groups

SANDS offers regular online support meetings and forums where parents and families can connect with others who have experienced pregnancy loss or the death of a baby. More information is available at www.sands.org.au.

Pink Elephants Virtual Peer Support

Pink Elephants provides virtual peer support through trained volunteers who have personally experienced miscarriage or pregnancy loss. They also offer online forums to connect with others. Their services can be accessed at www.pinkelephants.org.au.

Resources for Friends and Relatives

SANDS Australia – Supporting OthersSANDS offers resources for friends and relatives on how to support grieving parents. They provide practical advice on what to say, what to avoid, and how to be there for those affected by loss. Visit www.sands.org.au/supporting-others for more information.

Red Nose – Supporting Someone Who’s GrievingRed Nose offers guidance on how to support a loved one who has experienced the death of a baby. Their resources cover understanding grief and offering practical and emotional support. More details are available at www.rednosegriefandloss.com.au.

Pink Elephants – Supporting a Loved OnePink Elephants provides resources for friends, family, and colleagues to help them offer compassionate support to someone experiencing pregnancy loss. Their advice and tips can be found at www.pinkelephants.org.au/supportingothers.

Hospital and Community-Based Services

Many hospitals across Australia have bereavement support services and social workers who are trained to assist families through pregnancy and infant loss. You can speak to your local maternity hospital or healthcare provider for more details on the services available in your area.

These online services and resources provide emotional, practical, and peer support to help grieving parents, family members, and friends navigate the painful journey of pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or infant death.