Baby loss support resources
Emotional Support
We understand that baby loss can have a profound emotional and psychological impact. Grief is deeply personal, and everyone processes loss in their own way and at their own pace.
We are committed to fostering a compassionate and supportive environment where colleagues feel seen, heard, and supported. Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical recovery, and we encourage colleagues to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing during this time.
Your manager may suggest speaking to our independent Employee Assistance Programme or visiting your GP for further support. They might also recommend a referral to Occupational Health to better understand your needs and how they can assist you, in for example a phased return to work.
Counselling and wellbeing support
Help and support is also available through our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Our EAP provides free and confidential support to all University of Glasgow colleagues and their immediate family members. Support and advice is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The EAP provides a support network that offers expert advice and compassionate guidance 24/7, covering a wide range of issues helping colleagues through challenging periods either at work or home.
To access this service call 0800 028 0199.
Wisdom App
Wisdom provides an enhanced set of wellbeing tools and engaging features to support wellbeing and wellness. The features are designed to improve the user’s mental and physical health by using personal metrics to set goals and achievements, which include, interactive mood trackers, four-week plans, mini health checks, personalised wellbeing contact, access to their helpline 24/7, 365 days a year and the live chat feature allows colleagues to contact a wellbeing counsellor using live messaging and video calls. Download the app via the app store or google play store and enter unique code: MHA23726.
Returning to Work
We recognise that returning to work after losing a baby can be emotionally, mentally and physically challenging. Each person’s experience is unique, and we are committed to providing support for colleague’s individual needs.
Temporary Adjustments: If you need temporary changes to your working arrangements, please discuss this with your line manager. Together, you can explore suitable arrangements in line with section 5.5 of the University’s Flexible Working Policy. For more details on supportive adjustments, refer to our Guide to Reasonable Adjustments. This might include working on offline projects or phasing your return to normal routine, meetings and duties.
If you need further support
There are lots of charities and other specialist support groups who offer information and support about pregnancy loss. Here are some that you might find helpful:
- The Miscarriage Association– an organisation which offers support and information for those affected by miscarriage, ectopic or molar pregnancy as well as signposting for counselling services.
- Petals – provides specialist support and counselling after pregnancy loss
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage - a charity that funds research into pregnancy problems and provides information for parents-to-be.
- SANDS can offer you support if your baby dies during pregnancy or after birth.
- ARC a national charity offering parents support through antenatal screening and its consequences, including bereavement.
- Abortion Talk - a new charity offering people the chance to talk about abortion in a non-judgemental and supportive environment.
- The Fertility Network – a charity offering resources and support for those affected by fertility issues
- The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust – supporting people with early pregnancy complications.
- Child Bereavement UK - helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.
- Saying Goodbye – provides support to anyone affected by baby loss.
Podcasts
- The Worst Girl Gang Ever - https://theworstgirlgangever.co.uk/
- Hopes & Dreams - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-hopes-dreams-podcast/id1562027218 podcast hosted by UofG colleague Emma Gilmartin, with guests including other UofG colleagues talking about their different fertility journeys.