Baby loss charity launches specialist training course

Sands, UK’s leading baby loss charity has developed a specialist Bereavement in the Workplace training which is designed to help organisations better understand the impact of pregnancy and baby loss and how to support colleagues in professional settings.

It also helps them to implement best practice and reflect on their People Wellbeing policies.  

Saranne Moreno (pictured), partnerships development lead at Sands, said: “It’s not always easy to know what to say or how to support a colleague after baby loss, however with adequate training and support, workplaces can flourish into supportive environments, helping colleagues feel supported and valued at work, and in turn, supporting employee retention.

The right support can positively impact their mental and physical health, and most importantly, allow bereaved parents to have a safe and supportive space to grieve”. 

A survey of bereaved families, which was carried out by Sands this year, found that whilst almost half (48 per cent) of people who were bereaved in the past three years felt supported in the workplace upon returning to work, more than half aren’t getting the support they need, and many remain uncertain as to whether their employer has a baby loss policy.

Sands delivers training and specialist guidance to help employers to navigate employment laws, understand and implement best practice, and to help employers and colleagues to get it right when it comes to supporting bereaved parents.  

The training is delivered through live webinars, complemented by online modules for staff to watch at their own pace or when needed, and guidance documents to help workplaces adopt best practice. 

Those who receive training also have access to consultancy services and Sands’ support services, including their free national helpline, which is available to anyone who needs support.

Following a grant from the Department of Health and Social Care, Sands can also offer free training to small and medium sized business.  

For more information visit Sands Training website

Sands are here to support anyone affected by pregnancy loss and the death of a baby. Contact Sands Helpline on 0808 164 3332 or email helpline@sands.org.uk