Supporting Our Colleagues During Baby Loss Awareness Week
As we enter Baby Loss Awareness Week (9th–15th October), it’s important to take a moment to reflect and support those who have experienced the heartbreak of losing a baby at any stage of pregnancy. At Corps Security, we’re committed to being a compassionate and supportive workplace, particularly for colleagues navigating the grief that comes with such a profound loss.
After experiencing the loss of two babies, our HR Director, Magda Jablonska El-Aasar, has chosen to share her personal story with our colleagues. By breaking the silence, she hopes to let others know that they’re not alone, and to encourage more open conversations about pregnancy loss.
“Losing a baby during any stage of pregnancy can be incredibly emotional for parents,” Magda begins. “My husband and I lost two babies early in pregnancy. When we found out I was pregnant, we felt pure joy and excitement. But that joy was quickly replaced by an overwhelming sense of loss.”
In the UK, many employees are apprehensive to tell their workplace about their grief they’re experiencing following a pregnancy loss. Research suggests that nearly 40% of women who have had a miscarriage worry about how their colleagues and managers will react, often fearing that they will be judged or treated differently (CIPD)(The Miscarriage Association).
Recognising that colleagues may suffer in silence instead of seeking support at such a crucial time, Magda hopes that by sharing her story and letting, colleagues will take comfort in her honesty and understand that they’re not alone, they will feel more comfortable about reaching out for support.
Magda emphasises the importance of the support available at Corps Security, “Alongside the support provided by the NHS, we have a wide range of services and policies in place to help colleagues through challenging times. My goal is to make sure that any colleague who may be struggling feels they can reach out, knowing that they will be met with care and understanding. By being as accessible and approachable as possible, I hope to provide the support our team needs during difficult moments.”
One of the solutions to bridge the gap between colleagues and the HR team, is Magda will host a Wellbeing Surgery all day on World Mental Health Day, 10th October, where all colleagues can contact her via telephone and email to ask questions or discuss any concerns they may have.
At Corps Security, we’re committed to creating a community, where grieving parents feel seen, understood, and supported.