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Pregnancy loss and baby loss affect far more families than many of us realise, yet these experiences are still too often surrounded by silence, misunderstanding and stigma.

In this episode, I’m joined by Sands, the UK’s leading pregnancy and baby loss charity, to explore the realities of pregnancy and baby loss, the impact it can have on individuals and families, and what workplaces can do to better support those navigating grief.

Together, we discuss why these experiences remain difficult to talk about, the hidden impact of loss at work, and how managers, colleagues and organisations can create cultures of compassion, understanding and support.

Why This Conversation Matters

Pregnancy loss and baby loss are far more common than many people realise.

A YouGov survey commissioned by the Baby Loss Awareness Week Alliance in 2023 found that 50% of UK adults said that they, or someone they know, had experienced at least one form of pregnancy or baby loss.

Yet despite how common these experiences are, many people continue to suffer in silence, unsure how to talk about their loss or access the support they need.

For those returning to work after a loss, grief can often feel invisible, leaving many employees trying to navigate heartbreak whilst carrying on with everyday responsibilities.

Why Listen?

This episode will help you:

Better understand the emotional impact of pregnancy and baby loss

Learn how loss can affect people long after they return to work

Gain confidence in supporting a colleague, friend or loved one through grief

Understand what compassionate leadership looks like in practice

Discover how organisations can create more supportive and inclusive workplaces

Challenge common myths and misconceptions around pregnancy and baby loss

Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself, supported someone who has, or want to become a more compassionate leader, this conversation offers both insight and practical guidance.

In This Episode We Discuss:

The work Sands does to support families affected by pregnancy and baby loss

Why pregnancy and baby loss remain hidden experiences

The emotional and psychological impact of loss

The challenges of balancing grief and work

What to say (and what not to say) when supporting someone through loss

How managers can provide meaningful support

The role workplaces play in creating compassionate cultures

Practical steps organisations can take to better support employees affected by loss

Resources

If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, support is available through Sands and other specialist pregnancy and baby loss organisations.

Sands website
Sands training website

Telephone 0808164332
Email helpline@sands.org.uk
For managers to book 30 minutes with bereavement support

No one should have to navigate loss alone.

Read the transcript here