UK parents lead local initiatives to raise baby loss awareness

In the United Kingdom, bereaved parents are leading local initiatives to raise awareness regarding baby loss and stillbirth.

In Brightlingsea, author Ellouise Champion is organizing the town’s first Baby Loss Awareness Week, scheduled for October 9 to 16. Following the loss of her son Joey in 2023, Champion published two children’s books, ‘My Sibling in Heaven’ and ‘My Sibling Amongst The Stars’, to help families navigate grief. The awareness week will feature a ‘Wave of Light’ service at St James’ Church, remembrance displays, and support from local businesses.

Separately, Leigh O'Reilly has been shortlisted for the Community Baby Loss Champion Awards 2026. After the stillbirth of her daughter Elsie at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, O'Reilly and her partner Callum have worked to raise funds for the Worcestershire Maternity Bereavement Ward, raising over £8,000 to help remove taboos surrounding stillbirth.