SUPPORT SERVICES
If you need help to deal with issues dealt with on this site, below are a number of organisations which might be able to help.
Féileacáin
Féileacáin (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support) was formed in 2009 by a group of bereaved parents to offer support to anyone affected by the death of a baby around the time of birth. The organization is now the national charity supporting families affected by perinatal loss. Féileacáin is a not-for-profit organization and receives no funding from central government, relying instead on the support of our community and the families who avail of our services. Its vision is "the prevention of avoidable deaths of babies". They are contactable at their offices in Cork on 028 51301 or on their helpline which is run by trained professionals, and bereaved parents. If you want a chat or to arrange a face to face meeting call 085 249 6464. Website: https://feileacain.ie/
Set up by a group of bereaved parents, this is a voluntary organisation dedicated to enhancing safety and quality in care during childbirth and improving our maternity system and whose mission is "to ensure safer birthing experiences" in Ireland. They provide "a safe, confidential environment" for women and families to discuss their circumstances. Email: saferbirthsirelandalliance@gmail.com
A Little Lifetime Foundation (formerly the Irish Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society).
Founded in 1983 by a group of bereaved parents who searched for support after their baby died, the organisation runs a number of support groups for grieving parents. Their avowed mission is "to empower families to navigate the grieving process with dignity and resilience" through their programs, support groups, and online resources. They also say they "strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace and connection". Website: https://www.alittlelifetime.ie/
Anam Cara
They state on their website that their online and face-to-face groups provide bereaved parents "a safe and comfortable place where they can meet with other bereaved parents". To find out about Anam Cara events or other bereavement support services in your area, call 01 404 5378 or 085 2888 888 from the Republic of Ireland or 028 9521 3120 from Northern Ireland. Website: https://anamcara.ie/
Bethany Bereavement Group
A voluntary community and parish based service, its objective is to "support the bereaved through the grieving process". Their services are totally free of charge and confidential. Services include group meetings in a drop in centre, support for individuals at drop-in centres, and telephone support.
Contact: 087 9371781. Website: https://www.bethany.ie/
Ectopic Pregnancy Ireland
Set up by a group of women who have all been affected by one or more ectopic pregnancies, it is a voluntary organisation who achieved charity status in March 2010. Its main aims are to raise awareness about ectopic pregnancy amongst the general public and health professionals and to provide information and support to those who have been affected by an ectopic pregnancy. Website: https://www.ectopicireland.ie/
Every Life Counts
This is a support network for families whose child is diagnosed with a life-limiting condition. They provide a forum for parents of children who were diagnosed with a terminal conditionand they provide resources and hope to families and their children. Website: https://www.everylifecounts.ie