Support the Miscarriage Association
Wednesday 21st June 2006
Who we are
The Miscarriage Association is a registered national charity which offers support and information for people affected by the loss of a baby in pregnancy.
Why we exist
There are an estimated 250,000 miscarriages in the UK each year, with one in four pregnancies ending this way. A further one in one hundred pregnancies is ectopic.
Women and couples who suffer miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy commonly experience feelings of shock, grief and loss. Many lack understanding from those around them, information about what has happened and guidance for the future, creating feelings of isolation, guilt and anxiety. There can be added distress for those who have suffered recurrent miscarriage and for couples whose pregnancy was the result of fertility treatment. Men may find that they are expected to be a source of strength and support for their partner and that their own emotional needs go unrecognised.
What we do
The Miscarriage Association's support and information services work to reduce distress, anxiety and isolation. We:
• operate a staffed helpline five days per week, providing support and information by phone, letter and e-mail.
• co-ordinate a UK-wide network of support volunteers, all with personal experience of pregnancy loss and offering support by telephone and/or in support groups
• publish a range of leaflets on the facts and feelings of pregnancy loss
• manage a website which has information, support, news and personal stories
• run conferences for health professionals to promote good care
• work with the media to raise public awareness and understanding of miscarriage
How you can get involved
• Make a donation to support our work or organise a fundraising event
• Consider becoming a volunteer – there are all sorts of things you can do to help!
• Persuade your local GP surgery or hospital to display our poster
• Ask if you can place our poster in your local library or supermarket
• Tell people about The Miscarriage Association, so they know there is somewhere to turn.
Contact us:
Helpline: 01924 200799 (Mon- Fri, 9 to 4; answerphone out of office hours)
Email: info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk
Address; The Miscarriage Associaiton, c/o Clayton Hospital, Northgate, Wakefield WF1 3JS
www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk
