Last week, during Baby Loss Awareness Week, people came together to raise awareness and support bereaved parents, families, and friends in commemorating the lives of babies lost during pregnancy or infancy.
This week-long observance aimed to break the silence surrounding pregnancy and baby loss, fostering open conversations and encouraging communities to share their experiences. Through various events and initiatives, individuals highlighted the importance of acknowledging these profound losses and ensuring that families receive the support and understanding they need during such challenging times.
In the South Asian community, where grief and loss are often stigmatised, Baby Loss Awareness Week offers a vital opportunity to break down these barriers. Cultural expectations can lead to isolation for those experiencing loss, highlighting the importance of fostering open conversations about baby loss, grief, and healing.
Asian Voice reached out to several organisations and individuals to discuss their perspectives and insights on Baby Loss Awareness Week.
Need for open conversations
Vicki Robinson, Miscarriage Association (https://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/) CEO, said: “Despite its frequency— with about one in five pregnancies estimated to end in miscarriage—many people are unaware of how common it is because we, as a society, have not been used to talking openly about it. That can mean that people don’t feel able to share their loss and that can perpetuate the silence, or ‘taboo’. Many people who experience miscarriage often feel isolated, as if they're alone in their grief. Sharing their stories can foster a sense of community, helping them realise they’re not alone. Knowing that others understand their feelings can be immensely comforting and alleviate the burden of silence.”
“Every miscarriage is different; and there is no right way to feel about it. If you’re finding it difficult to talk to your partner, friends, or wider community, the Miscarriage Association has a staffed helpline, live chat, online and in-person peer support groups, and private Facebook groups, she added.
A law enforcement professional and TEDx speaker, Nisha Chandra-Square shared that losing three babies has been the hardest experience of her life. She emphasised the significant impact of increased awareness during Baby Loss Week on families experiencing loss, stating, “It breaks the silence around this painful and taboo subject, showing families they are not alone. It fosters empathy and support in the broader community, easing feelings of isolation for grieving parents. Sharing stories and hearing about others' journeys can provide healing and hope. Moreover, raising awareness sparks essential conversations about baby loss, leading to improved support services and resources for families in need.”
Empowering South Asian families after baby loss
Madhuri Bedi, Sands Bereavement Support and Outreach Coordinator for South Asian Communities, highlighted the challenges faced by South Asian communities in dealing with baby loss grief. She stated, “One of the biggest challenges is the stark inequalities in baby loss, particularly within Black and South Asian communities. The death of a baby is a sadly common occurrence, with around 13 babies dying before, during, or shortly after birth each day in the UK. Research shows that South Asian and Black women face significant inequalities in pregnancy outcomes, with the highest rates of baby loss in these communities. Sands is working to understand the complex reasons behind this and to identify preventive measures. Bereaved parents of South Asian heritage often experience additional feelings of shame, stigma, and isolation, which can severely affect their mental health and hinder access to support. Recognising these challenges, Sands (https://www.sands.org.uk/support-south-asian-communities) emphasises the need for greater engagement and tailored support for Black and South Asian communities.”
Speaking about how awareness week can help encourage people having this conversation within the communities, Madhuri said, “When someone loses a child, people often avoid talking about them, apologising if their name comes up. But as a parent, I want to speak about my child. Even though I can't hold him in my arms, I carry him in my heart forever, and saying his name keeps his memory alive. It's important to allow parents to talk about their child, and small gestures—like acknowledging a birthday or simply reaching out—can mean the world. There's no right or wrong way to grieve, but showing support through small acts, like wearing a Baby Loss Awareness badge or giving memory boxes, helps parents feel less alone. Everyone knows someone who's experienced loss, and letting them know there is support available can make a huge difference.”
Nisha emphasised the need for the South Asian community to confront the stigma surrounding baby loss, stating, “There is still significant taboo and blame associated with a woman losing a baby in our communities. It’s treated like a curse, which needs to change through open, honest conversations. Many in the older generation misunderstand loss, often viewing it as merely a ‘bad period.’ I share my experiences regardless of community perceptions because we need to provide hope and support. Acknowledging loss, allowing grief without shame, and fostering dialogue are essential for progress.”
