In the UK, 17 babies a day die at or around the time of birth and this does not include babies which are miscarried (born before 24 weeks).  Forth Valley Sands offers support and advice to the parents and families of these babies. We achieve this through our local group of befrienders, backed by telephone support, informational leaflets and books for parents and health professionals. Forth Valley Sands also provides support to those parents and families whose babies died some time ago.

Nationally, Sands supports over 4,000 families every year through a national helpline, a UK network of parent led support groups and befrienders, a website, plus support leaflets and publications.

"A woman who loses her husband is called a widow.
A man who loses his wife is called a widower.
A child who loses its parents is called an orphan.
There is no word to describe a parent who loses a child, for there is no word to describe the pain."