SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month 2025

SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month is a dedicated time to remember and support families affected by the loss of a baby during pregnancy, at birth, or shortly after. This important month brings communities together to raise awareness, encourage open conversations, and highlight the vital work carried out by SANDS in supporting bereaved parents across the UK.

What is SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month?

SANDS Awareness Month is an annual campaign organised by the Stillbirth and neonatal death charity (SANDS). Its goal is to raise public understanding about stillbirth and neonatal death, spotlight the impact these tragedies have on families, and break the silence that often surrounds these losses. Throughout the month, SANDS encourages communities, healthcare professionals, and individuals to take action, show support, and promote better care for those affected.

When is SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month?

SANDS Awareness Month is observed every June. In 2025, the awareness month will run from June 1st to June 30th. All across the UK, events, campaigns, and remembrance activities will take place during these four weeks to provide support and raise awareness.

Why is SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month Important?

Every year, thousands of families in the UK experience the heartbreak of losing a baby. Despite its frequency, stillbirth and neonatal death can remain deeply isolating due to stigma and lack of understanding. SANDS Awareness Month is crucial for acknowledging the grief of bereaved families, sharing vital information about prevention, and ensuring that those impacted know they are not alone. The month also aims to influence positive changes in healthcare practices and policy, ultimately helping to reduce the number of babies who die.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in SANDS Awareness Month:

• Take part in fundraising events such as sponsored walks, runs, or community gatherings.
• Share stories and resources on social media to help break the silence and spread awareness.
• Wear the SANDS Awareness ribbon or other merchandise to show your support.
• Attend remembrance services to honour babies who have died and support grieving families.
• Donate to SANDS to help fund research, support services, and educational programmes.

History of SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month

SANDS was founded in 1978 by bereaved parents who recognised the lack of support available after the loss of a baby. Since then, SANDS has grown into a leading UK charity, providing vital services and advocating for improved maternity care. The introduction of SANDS Awareness Month has provided a dedicated time for national conversation, remembrance, and action, helping to reduce stigma and promote understanding year after year.

Facts About SANDS (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity) Awareness Month

• Each year in the UK, over 4,000 babies are stillborn or die within the first four weeks of life.
• SANDS provides a free national helpline, local support groups, and online resources for anyone affected by baby loss.
• The charity works closely with healthcare professionals to improve training and support best practices in maternity care.
• Signature events during the month include the “”Wave of Light,”” a worldwide candle-lighting ceremony to remember lost babies.

Relevant Hashtags
#SANDAwarenessMonth #BabylossAwareness #RememberingOurBabies #SANDSUK #BreakTheSilence #SupportSANDS