Baby Loss Awareness Week
Baby Loss Awareness Week is an annual, national awareness week. Baby Loss Awareness Week 2026 is from 9 - 15 October.
What to say and what not to say to someone who is bereaved
When someone you love is grieving after the death of a baby or young child, it can be difficult to know what to say.
You might worry about saying the wrong thing, upsetting them or not knowing how to help. But you don’t need the perfect words, you just need to be there.
Acknowledge their baby. Listen when they want to talk. Say their baby’s name. Let them know you’re thinking of them. And keep checking in, even when time has passed.
Some things that are intended to comfort can sometimes feel painful to someone who is grieving.
Our helplines are open to anyone experiencing baby loss, including those who want help knowing how to support bereaved family or friends. We’ve put together a few things you could say below, but if you want more information or support, please call or reach out.
What to say, and what to try and avoid saying
Sometimes simple and brief is the way to go
Rather than trying to find a reason, or a way to make things better, sometimes the most helpful thing is simply to say:
“I’m so sorry.”
“I’m here for you.”
“I’m thinking of you and your baby.”
There is no way to take away someone’s grief, but you can help them feel less alone in it, this Baby Loss Awareness Week, and always.
Discover more
How to support a loved one
Bereaved families share examples of something that someone said or did that helped them after their baby died.
Christine’s story
Christine's daughter, Nerice, was born in 1999 and died at four days old. Christine shared her experience of grief, and how The Lullaby Trust supported her before and after the birth of Owen.
