Bereavement support
Sadly, not every pregnancy has a happy outcome and some end in the loss of a much-wanted baby. The death of a baby is a difficult time for the family of the baby, and the parents may need to make difficult decisions. We know that losing a baby can be the hardest thing a woman and her family can go through. Our maternity team offers a holistic bereavement service to provide emotional and practical support during this challenging time.
Specialist bereavement midwives
Our specialist bereavement midwives can offer practical and emotional support for parents during the immediate time after a pregnancy loss and the weeks that follow. They can provide phone support and visits at home, and there is no cut off time for contacting us. Our support will continue according to your needs.
Both University Hospital Lewisham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital have bereavement suites that may be available to families while they stay in hospital. Support is available from our maternity staff and the chaplaincy and spiritual care service during your stay.
If you are looking at this page due to a recent pregnancy loss or are now having a pregnancy after loss and would welcome some support, please contact the bereavement midwives on the phone numbers below.
University Hospital Lewisham
Karen Njuguna, Bereavement Midwife 07917 598 380
Email: lg.bereavementmidwives@nhs.net
Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Liz Ware, Bereavement Midwife 07747 631 375
Email: lg.bereavementmidwives@nhs.net
This service runs 7-days a week so you may receive calls at weekends and bank holidays.
Support from other organisations
Helix is a specialist service that offers psychological therapy and peer support for people affected by pregnancy/baby loss. the service is open to anyone who is currently experiencing emotional distress or mental health difficulties related to perinatal loss, regardless of how long ago the loss happened. This may include pregnancy after loss. You can be referred by a health professional or self refer (Oxleas only) Please click on the link below for more information.
Information about the Helix Service for people living in Bromley, Bexley and Greenwich
Information about Helix for people living in Lambeth and Southwark
Other charities who can support people after the death of a baby are listed below.
SANDS
0808 164 3332
Miscarriage Association
www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk
01924 200 799
Child Bereavement UK
0800 028 8840
The Lullaby Trust
0808 802 6868