Philip’s Footprints was founded in June 2008 by Jo and Paul Nash following the unexpected full-term stillbirth of their son Philip, in March of that year. Leaving the Maternity Unit with empty arms and few tangible memories, Jo felt driven to ensure that other bereaved parents would have something more by which to remember their child, knowledge to help them navigate through the traumatic grief that follows, and access to support information. With these three things in mind the charity was established.

Safer Pregnancy Projects

Jo and the other charity Trustees felt strongly about doing more to reduce the number of babies dying, starting their “Safer Pregnancy Projects” in 2015. Every year, as well as the 15/20 babies who are stillborn, or too sick or small to survive, another 100 babies are admitted to the Special Care Baby Unit. 

 By bringing high quality antenatal training to Jersey, funding antenatal equipment and supplying information on safer pregnancies to pregnant women, this can reduce not only the premature birth rate, but can also reduce complications at birth and stillbirths. By investing in every pregnancy this will improve outcomes and ensure as many babies as possible get to go home.

Memories Matter

Sadly, every year up to 20 families annually lose a baby in the Maternity Unit, Rayner Ward (Gynaecology) and Robin Ward (Paediatric). Comfort is offered in the memory boxes that are filled with memory making items, keepsakes and support information for all the family. The charity also offer peer support and hold a Christmas remembrance service open to anyone affected by the loss of a baby (at any gestation) or child, no matter what age or how long ago.