When a baby, child, or young person has died suddenly

The loss of any child, at any age, is devastating. It is always a deep tragedy for parents, siblings, family, whānau, friends, and their community.

After pregnancy, baby, or infant loss
Some sudden, unexpected deaths of a baby or infant, including during pregnancy, can remain unexplained. Others can be explained after an investigation. Some can be caused by accident or violence. Whatever the situation, our caring and experienced Support Workers are here to help. We can provide bereaved families, whānau, and friends with personal and practical support, and referrals to specialised support in your area.

We understand how painful this time can be for everyone affected, especially for parents, grandparents, and siblings. You can call us 24/7 on 0800 842 846 to be connected with a Support Worker.

Your health provider or Support Worker can talk with you about any local and regional agencies that can provide support, and how to contact them.

These national agencies also offer support:

• Wheturangitia - information and support for family and whānau experiencing the death of a baby or child, provided by Department of Internal Affairs.

• Sands NZ - a national charity that supports anyone affected by the death of a baby before, during or shortly after birth. It is an organisation of parents who have experienced the loss of a baby themselves. Contact a group in your area.

• Baby Loss NZ support parents and families after the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or in infancy. They also support parents facing the difficult decision following a poor prognosis. Branches located in Papakura, Hauraki/Piako and Christchurch. Active nationally on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/babylossnewzealand

• SIDS and Kids provide a 24 hour bereavement support for anyone who has experienced the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child regardless of the cause. Contact the 24-hour sudden infant death helpline 0800 164 455. 

• Other groups around New Zealand offering support  http://sands.org.nz/nonsands-supportgroups.html

When a child or young person has died
These links provide helpful information for those grieving the death of a loved child or young person.

Helpful articles:

• What to do after your child has died 

• Experiencing grief after your child has died 

See Skylight’s support handbook for bereaved parents, Beyond Words.
https://skylight-trust.myshopify.com/products/bw

Support is available through a range of agencies and support groups.
See this helpful directory https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/support/g/grief-loss/