We understand that returning to work following pregnancy or baby loss can be difficult, which is why it’s so important that workplaces are compassionate, supportive and ready to welcome back those who want to return, in a way which is right for them.  

Returning to Work After Pregnancy or Baby Loss

Everyone responds to grief in different ways. Some may prefer to not talk about their baby upon their returning to work, whereas others may find talking about their baby gives them great comfort. We understand that colleagues and managers can also feel uncertain about what to say. We are here to support you, whether you have experienced pregnancy or baby loss, or are a colleague or employer. 

“Returning to work after the loss of a baby can be a difficult experience for bereaved parents, and for the wider work community. Hearing an employee or colleague has experienced the loss of their baby can feel overwhelming and daunting. 

We recognise the importance of getting the transition back into the workplace just right and we are here to support you, whether you’re a bereaved parent, employer or colleague. We can provide emotional support, and we can help you with practical tools from knowing what to say and how best to share information, to understanding longer term impact and adjustments."

Clare, Workplace Bereavement Support Officer

Support booklet: Pregnancy and Baby Loss at Work

Our support booklet, "Pregnancy and baby loss at work," is a resource that offers for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss and their employers. It includes practical advice on: 

  • How to tell your colleagues and employer
  • Knowing when to return to work
  • Showing emotions
  • Workplace entitlements 

It also provides guidance for employers on the importance of creating a supportive workplace environment, managing someone's return to work, and a selection of templates to help you find the right words. 

Workplace support

If you are someone who has been affected by pregnancy or baby loss and are either at work or thinking about returning to work, please know that we are here for you. If you are a colleague, manager or employer who would like some advice and guidance on how to help someone at work, we are here for you too.   

We are now able to provide dedicated bereavement support to colleagues and managers through our Helpline, and Clare, our designated Workplace Bereavement Support Officer. If you would like support or employee guidance, you can send Clare a direct email at, workplace@sands.org.uk or if you would prefer, you can also book onto one of our new online support clinics where she can provide 30 minutes of one-to-one support.  

Sands Bereavement in the Workplace training

Our Bereavement in the Workplace training is designed to help managers and colleagues understand pregnancy or baby loss, find the words to support bereaved staff, implement best practice and navigate relevant employment law.

We believe everyone should have access to the best support available. With thanks to funding from the Department of Health and Social Care and from our generous supporters, we are able to offer free training to small and medium sized organisations (less than 250 employees).

Find out more about our Bereavement in the Workplace training. 

Exit Site