Support and resources
There are several excellent UK-based charities and organisations offering support for perinatal loss. Below is a selection of those Ember Therapy would most recommend, covering different types of loss and support.
Sands
The UK's leading stillbirth and neonatal death charity — helpline, peer support, and resources.
www.sands.org.ukMiscarriage Association
Helpline and resources for those affected by miscarriage, ectopic, or molar pregnancy.
www.miscarriageassociation.org.ukChild Bereavement UK
Support for families when a baby or child of any age dies — helpline and live chat.
www.childbereavementuk.orgTommy's
UK's largest pregnancy and baby loss charity — midwife helpline and resources for all types of loss.
www.tommys.orgBirth Trauma Association
Support and resources for anyone who has experienced a traumatic birth.
www.birthtraumaassociation.org.ukPetals
Free specialist counselling for parents who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss.
www.petalscharity.orgSupporting someone else.
If you are here for a partner, a friend or a family member, these are the questions we are asked most often.
One of the most important things you can do is be present, without trying to fix, minimise, or rush their grief. Perinatal loss can feel invisible to those around it, and one of the most powerful gifts you can offer is acknowledgement. Say the baby's name if they had one. Ask how they are, and mean it. Do not avoid the subject out of fear of upsetting them; most bereaved parents want their loss to be recognised, not ignored.
A common question we get asked is the offer of couples therapy. Ember Therapy is currently an individual therapy practice and does not offer couples therapy at this time — though we hope to offer it in the future. Where it is clinically appropriate, we can offer one or two ad hoc sessions with a partner. This would always be discussed and agreed on collaboratively. We do, however, offer individual psychological therapy for the birthing person or the birthing partner.
Immediate support
If you cannot keep yourself safe right now.
Perinatal loss can create thoughts and feelings that feel frightening or overwhelming — including thoughts of harming yourself or not wanting to be here.
Please note that Ember Therapy is not a crisis service, and it would not be safe to use this website in an emergency. If you are in immediate danger, contact one of the following services right now.