Losing a child is one of the most devastating, life changing events that a parent can experience.

Reactions can vary significantly and those experiencing such a heartbreaking loss can often feel lost and alone.

Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Support is free of charge.

SIDS and Kids ACT, incorporating SANDS ACT Branch, provide support services for families who experience the death of a child sudenly and unexpectedly from 20 weeks of pregnancy through to six years of age.

Support will be tailored to meet your individual needs, please call the office on 02 6287 4255.

24 Hour Crisis Support

Trained peer support volunteers provide a 24 hour 7 day per week crisis support phone service.  To access this emergency service please call 1800 138 300.

Professional Counselling

Counselling is provided to individuals, couples and adult family members on request.  Counselling for children can be arranged with our external children's counsellors.

Peer Support

Our trained peer support volunteers are parents or grandparents who have experienced a personal loss and are available to provide support to families either face to face or via the telephone.

Support Groups

We hold a variety of regular support groups facilitated by our counsellors.  These include a general support group, grandparents support group, a group for parents who have lost children due to genetic causes, and a group for parents who have lost one or more children from a multiple birth.

Resource Library

Our library contains a wide variety of books, videos and booklets that may assist you ~ come and have a browse.

Family Newsletter

Our newsletter is produced 3 times per year and includes parents stories and tributes, suggestions of coping strategies and articles of interest for families.

Annual Memorial Service and Dedication to the Wall of Memory

Our non-denominational service is held on the first Sunday in December each year and provides families with an opportunity to join together to remember their beloved children.  Each year parents have the opportunity to have their child's name dedicated to the wall of memory.

Funeral Arrangements

We can provide advice on funeral options for your baby including how to make arrangements, costs and anything else you may not be sure of.

Memory Album and Scrapbooking

A memory album is kept at the SIDS and Kids office, and families are welcome to prepare a page for inclusion in this album in memory of their child.  We are also able to provde details of specialised scrapbooking classes and events.

Anniversary Cards

Parents and grandparents can choose to receive a card each year commemorating their child's or grandchild's death and/or birthday.

Advocacy and Referral

We are able to assist with liaison and referral to other agencies on behalf of families as required.

Annual Family Day

Held in February each year, this social event provides families the opportunity to get together and relax in a safe and nurturing environment.