During Baby Loss Awareness Week (9 – 15 October 2026), Social Security Scotland is highlighting the financial support available to families who have experienced the loss of a baby. This initiative aims to help ease financial pressures during a difficult time.
Families who already receive qualifying benefits may be eligible for additional support following a stillbirth or the death of their baby. The Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment can assist with financial relief, and the Funeral Support Payment is available to help cover funeral costs.
Shirley-Anne Somerville, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, stated that losing a baby can have a devastating impact, often compounded by financial pressures. She emphasised that the Scottish Government offers a package of financial help to allow parents to grieve without added worries.
An estimated 1 in 4 people in the UK experience pregnancy or baby loss. Social Security Scotland acknowledges the profound impact this can have and is committed to supporting clients and colleagues. Their teams are specially trained to handle bereavement cases with compassion and respect, ensuring clients are treated with dignity.
Nicola Rudnicki, Deputy Director of People and Place at Social Security Scotland, added that the organisation has signed Miscarriage UK’s Pregnancy Loss Pledge, underscoring their commitment to a supportive environment for those affected.
Rowena Pailing, Director of Bereavement Support Services at Sands, noted that baby loss has significant emotional and financial impacts. Sands encourages anyone who loses a baby to check their eligibility for financial help from Social Security Scotland.
Baby Loss Awareness Week aims to bring people together to share experiences of pregnancy and baby loss. It also marks the annual Wave of Light memorial on 15 October, where families worldwide light a candle at 7pm in remembrance of babies lost too soon.
Sands is a charity dedicated to speaking up about pregnancy and baby loss, saving babies' lives, and supporting bereaved families. Latest figures from March 2026 estimate that 1 in 4 pregnancies in the UK end in loss.
Eligibility for the Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment extends from the 24th week of pregnancy up to six months after the baby’s birth date, or six months after the birth date if the baby was born before 24 weeks. The Funeral Support Payment can assist with funeral, travel, document, and medical costs, with applications accepted up to six months after the funeral date.
