Aching Arms launches OFFLOAD campaign: Supporting bereaved dads in the construction industry.

01/04/2025

Aching Arms Launches OFFLOAD Campaign to Support Bereaved Dads in Construction Industry.

The OFFLOAD campaign, by Aching Arms, is dedicated to supporting Dads in the construction industry who have experienced pregnancy and baby loss. This initiative aims to create a space for grieving Dads to feel seen, heard, and understood in their workplaces.

The loss of a baby is an incredibly painful experience, and for many Dads, there is little opportunity to grieve, express their emotions, or seek support. The construction industry, known for its tough, no-nonsense culture, often leaves little room for employees to open up about their feelings after such devastating losses. Many men find it difficult to share their grief in their workplaces. 

Aching Arms believes no Dad should have to face this difficult journey alone.

The Facts Behind Baby Loss and Its Impact on Dads:

• 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss.
• Approximately 3,000 babies are stillborn each year.
• Only 13% of companies offer paid leave for partners.
• 87% of construction workers experience anxiety.
• According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), construction workers are four times more likely to die by suicide.

These statistics highlight the need for specialised support, particularly within high-risk industries like construction.

How Aching Arms Can Help

Aching Arms provides comfort and support to families dealing with the loss of a baby, whether during pregnancy, at birth, or shortly after. One of the ways we help is by offering comfort bears to bereaved families, which serve as a reminder that they are not alone during their grief.

Our ‘Supporting Arms’ service provides a safe space for anyone affected by baby loss to talk to someone who truly understands what they’re going through. Whether you need someone to talk to, share your experiences, or seek advice, we are here to support you.

Dedicated Support for Dads: A Space to Share with Other Dads.

We understand that Dads often need to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. That’s why we offer a monthly online support group exclusively for bereaved fathers. This group, led by Tom Donaldson, a bereaved Dad and member of the Supporting Arms team, gives Dads the opportunity to share, gain support, and find comfort from others who truly understand their grief.

Our monthly online meetings take place on the first Monday of every month at 7:30 pm (unless otherwise specified). To get the Microsoft Teams link for each session, please email dadsupport@achingarms.co.uk.
For one-on-one support, we also offer a telephone helpline specifically for fathers who would like to speak with another bereaved dad. You can reach us at 07754 436133.

Our Guide for Bereaved Dads

Aching Arms also offers a book called ‘You are a dad… You always will be’, which provides helpful information for bereaved fathers. It outlines our support services and provides guidance on navigating the challenging early months following pregnancy and baby loss.

Support for Dads in the Workplace.

Aching Arms advocates for improved bereavement care both in healthcare settings and the workplace. We believe all environments should be compassionate and inclusive, with policies in place to support grieving families. To this end, we are working closely with the construction industry to ensure that fathers receive the support they need when faced with the heartbreaking loss of a baby.

Get Involved with the OFFLOAD Campaign
The OFFLOAD campaign is calling for supporters to help make a difference. You can contribute by:

• Championing: Become a representative in your company or within the construction industry to advocate for bereaved fathers and guide them to appropriate support services.
• Training: Collaborate with us to provide training for HR staff, line managers, site managers, and colleagues to ensure they are equipped to support bereaved coworkers in the workplace.
• Expanding: Help us secure funding to expand our services within the construction industry and offer more support to fathers in need.
• Supporting: Work with us to make support services available to employees and ensure workplace policies are inclusive and compassionate.
• Raising Awareness: Help spread the word about our services and display information about the OFFLOAD campaign in prominent places within your workplace.

Through your support, we can ensure that more bereaved dads in the construction industry receive the care and understanding they need. Together, we can make a lasting impact and help grieving fathers feel less isolated during their most difficult time.

Sign up here to support our OFFLOAD Campaign

For more information on how you can get involved, please contact Helen at helen@achingarms.co.uk

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