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We offer confidential support to anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or young child.
Emma’s Befriender Story
My sister Lisa-Jayne died in October 1988, she was just 3 weeks old, I was 5 years old at the time, and I can tell you everything about that night, the argument my mum had with the paramedics, the gentleman that was already in the ambulance with a broken leg, but it was a specialist neonatal ambulance so the crew were asked to attend. Then when we came back to the house the police – they were everywhere. My brother (he turned 7 the day after Lisa died) and I spent the next few days with our grandparents while mum and dad answered lots of questions from police and other people. I don’t remember having any support – it was all geared towards my parents – what they needed, how they were coping (they were put in contact with FSID as they were known then) – my brother and I were mostly left to just get on with it!
When I fell pregnant with my eldest I remember feeling that she was going to be taken away from me, just the same as my sister was. I had a chat with the support team at The Lullaby Trust, and whilst I was offered to be put in contact with a sibling who had gone through the same as me, I decided not to take up the offer at that time.
In October 2015 having had my second child a year earlier and due to a change in circumstances meant I have some time on my hands and I wanted to do something to give back. I saw The Lullaby Trust wanted to expand their befrienders – what better way to give back than to be able to help other people who have gone through what I had – to be able to give them the support that I didn’t have….
You will normally find me at the London area family days with my 2 children sporting yellow t-shirts.
Read more bereavement stories
Whether a parent or carer, grandparent, teacher or family friend - these stories are from those who have experienced the death of a baby or young child.
Useful information
When a baby dies
We hope that this page can help explain what you might experience now and in the future, in terms of practicalities.
Befriending support
Befriending is a listening support service that we offer to bereaved family members.
Brothers and sisters
It is common for parents to feel worried about how any other children will be affected by their sibling’s death.