Job Description

Every day in the UK, 13 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth.

Sands is the leading stillbirth and neonatal death charity and exists to reduce the number of babies dying and to support anyone affected by the death of a baby, before, during or shortly after birth.

We are looking to recruit a Bereavement Support Services Officer to provide consistent, high-quality information and support to bereaved families.

Our Bereavement Support Services team provides a wide range of services, including the Freephone Helpline, Online Community, Social Media support, a Bereavement Support App, memory making resources, and print materials.

In this role, you will provide consistent, high-quality emotional support to bereaved families who seek support from Sands.

The Sands Helpline is currently open from 10.00am to 3.00pm from Monday to Friday, and also between 6.00pm and 9.00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bereavement Support Services Officers will be expected to work regular shifts on a rota basis as we look to expand our opening hours.

With proven ability in providing bereavement-centred support in a variety of settings and channels, you will be able to demonstrate a sound understanding of, and empathy with, the issues surrounding the death of a baby. 

You will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and be able to use these appropriately to offer telephone and email support to bereaved families.

The ability to professionally represent the charity’s views and positions clearly is essential, as are strong research skills and the ability to keep accurate and clear records in a variety of formats.

You will have effective time management skills and able to manage your own workload.  The ability to reflect on your own practice and attend regular accredited clinical supervision is also essential.