SIDs and KIDs Grampians Bereavement Services.

For families and other affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a stillborn baby, child or young person up to 18 years of age. State wide 24 Hours Telephone Support Service PH; 1800 240 400 Free counselling and support by trained professionals. Parent support from trained bereaved parents who had experienced a similar loss. Telephone support and office/home visiting where possible. Support groups according to demand. Children's program and resources for bereaved siblings 'Treasured Babies' memory boxes, naming certificates and layettes for babies who have died in the perinatal period Quarterly Newsletter Booklets, visual and audio resources on grief and loss Community Education in Safe Sleeping and Grief & Loss Annual Memorial Service ASK-Online catalogue of research material Web site

Extra Phone: (03) 5320 4811

Other Contact: SIDS and Kids Grampians - Jennifer Swan, (03) 9822 9611

Other Contact: SIDS and Kids Victoria - Susan Halstead-Baker, (03) 9822 9611

To save babies lives through research and health promotion and to support families and community members affected by sudden and unexpected death of a child.

Can be made to meet at the Ballarat office, home or other location

Cost: Free

Office at the Ballarat Hospital (Ballarat Health Services)

Open: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, (9am - 5pm (1 week) and Tues, Wed, Thurs (9am - 5pm (every alternate week) Melbourne Office: 9am - 5pm Mon to Fri and AH 24/7 days

Meetings: 'Empty Arms' Group: Meet monthly in Horsham (1st Wed of month at 12.30 pm - 2pm and welcomes parents who have experienced the death of an expected baby, or a young infant from any cause. The group is cofacilitated by a bereaved parent and the SIDS and Kids Grampian's counsellor/educator

Procedures: Cal Ballarat Office (details above) or Melbourne Office on: 1800 240 400

Publications: Circle of Friends Newletter, SIDs News

Referral: Can be made by any one on behalf of others affected by a death of a child but requires the person's permission.

Waiting List: Little or no waiting time