In the UK, 17 babies a day are stillborn or die in the first 4 weeks of life.
Here in N. Ireland, 4 babies a week are stillborn or die in the first 4 weeks of life.
All Sands Befrienders are volunteers, usually parents who have been directly affected by the death of a baby at or around the time of birth. They have all undergone Sands befriender training. Befrienders can provide support in a number of ways. Either at the support groups, telephone support, home visits, or email support.
Currently there are Befrienders in the Antrim, Bangor, Belfast, Craigavon, Crossgar, Fivemiletown, Portadown and Strabane areas. To be put in contact with a Befriender in your area, please contact the N.Ireland Helpline.