Word On The Offload Campaign

Our grateful thanks to Aching Arms (www.achingarms.co.uk) for their contribution to our on-air report, which you can hear again via the audio player at the the bottom of this page

What is the 'Offload' Campaign? Offload is a compassionate, peer-led support initiative created by Aching Arms specifically for bereaved fathers and partners who have experienced the loss of a baby during pregnancy, at birth, or shortly after. The campaign acknowledges that fathers grieve too — and need safe, understanding spaces to talk about their feelings without judgement. Launched in response to growing awareness of the unmet emotional needs of grieving dads, Offload offers:

• Monthly online peer support sessions led by trained volunteers who have themselves experienced baby loss.
• A chance for fathers to talk openly, share experiences, or simply listen in a confidential, supportive environment.
• Help to tackle isolation, stress, anger, and silent grief that many men carry alone.
• Resources and signposting to further mental health and bereavement support if needed.

The name 'Offload' reflects the campaign’s core mission — giving men permission to unburden their grief, talk about their babies, and acknowledge the depth of their loss in a community that understands.

Why It Matters? Fathers are too often the forgotten mourners in baby loss. Studies and charities like Aching Arms have found that societal expectations around masculinity and emotional resilience can prevent dads from seeking help, leading to prolonged grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship strain.

Offload is changing that — offering a vital lifeline for men who might otherwise feel isolated and unsupported in their grief.

How to Access 'Offload' If you, or someone you know, could benefit from connecting with other bereaved fathers, you can find out more about Aching Arms’ Offload campaign and book onto a peer support session via their website: www.achingarms.co.uk

You’ll also find additional resources, stories from other dads, and ways to get involved in raising awareness about baby loss.

You Are Not Alone. However you’re feeling — whether you’re angry, numb, devastated, or unsure what to do next — your grief matters. There’s no right or wrong way to cope after losing a baby, but no one should have to go through it alone.

Listen to this weeks radio report