The pain of losing a baby is intense and even more so if the death could have been avoided. Everyone's experience of grief is unique but these interviews are always highly sensitive and need careful handling.

We have seen a number of these stories emerge within our news cycle in recent years, notably including the Shrewsbury maternity scandal in 2022.

This week (from 15 July 2024) is Birth Trauma Awareness week. As a former BBC journalist, author and trainer in trauma reporting, here are my 12 tips for reporters to navigating these delicate news stories:

Prepare: You are less likely to feel awkward or uncomfortable if you take a moment beforehand to think about what you may say. Be across the facts.

Acknowledge: A simple, sincere 'I'm so sorry for what you are going through,' is better than saying nothing. Some parents have shared how much it means to be asked about the infant, to use their name. Be led by them on this.

Empathy:........

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