Many bereaved parents find support from their own friends and family, but often making contact with another parent who has experienced a cot death can be very helpful. 

FSID has a UK network of trained befrienders who are bereaved parents themselves.  They give their time voluntarily to listen and support others. 

Contact FSID’s Helpline if you'd like to be put in touch with a befriender.

If befrienders are local to you they can meet you and your family, if you wish.  Alternatively, you could choose to speak on the phone, write or email rather than meet.  

Some bereaved parents have told FSID that their befriender has been a lifeline in the early days after their baby's death.   
 
Becoming a befriender
To become a befriender yourself, at least three years after your own bereavement, you will be asked to attend a special preparation course, exploring personal feelings, experiences and understanding how to give effective support.

If you would like to become a befriender please contact FSID's Support and Education department, call the Helpline on 020 7233 2090, send an email to helpline@fsid.org.uk or write (press here for contact details).