A midwife whose exceptional compassion and dedication supported a family through the loss of their baby has been named the winner of the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care 2026.
Helen Wilson, a midwife at The Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, received the prestigious accolade following a heartfelt nomination from bereaved mother Ashley Waugh.
Waugh praised Helen’s empathy, kindness, and unwavering support during the birth of her son, Benjamin, who was stillborn at 22 weeks and four days in October 2025.
Waugh said: “In the darkest hours of our lives, Wilson gave us safety, dignity, and humanity. I truly could not have asked for a better midwife, and she is profoundly deserving of recognition for the empathy and compassion she brings to families experiencing unimaginable loss.”
In her nomination, Waugh described how Wilson provided calm, reassuring support throughout labour, helping the family feel safe, respected, and cared for during one of the most devastating experiences of their lives. Wilson remained by their side throughout labour, guiding them through each stage, helping them access specialist bereavement support, and creating opportunities for the family to make precious memories with their son.
Throughout the family’s time in hospital, Wilson helped create a supportive environment where they could spend meaningful time with Benjamin. She introduced the Abigail Cooling Cot, arranged support from bereavement specialists and chaplaincy services, and ensured the family had access to lasting keepsakes, including photographs that Waugh described as “priceless”.
The nomination highlighted how Wilson treated Benjamin with tenderness, dignity, and respect, helping his parents feel recognised and supported as a family while creating memories they will cherish forever.
Remarkably, this was Wilson’s first experience caring for a family whose baby was born sleeping since qualifying as a midwife. Waugh said her care was “instinctively compassionate, calm, and deeply human”, making an immeasurable difference to how the family experienced their loss.
Responding to the award win, Wilson said: “It was an honour to be nominated and stand alongside so many incredible health professionals shortlisted for this award. Knowing that a bereaved family felt the care I provided deserved to be recognised is so meaningful. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalised care, and I’m proud to have won the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care.”
Clea Harmer, Chief Executive at baby loss charity Sands, said: “Every family’s experience of pregnancy or baby loss is unique, and the care they receive during this time has a deep, long-lasting impact.”
“When a midwife like Helen takes the time to understand a family’s wishes and what is important to them, they can provide personalised care that helps the family feel respected and supported. Providing information in a kind and compassionate way can make such a big difference.”
“All the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care nominations were submitted by bereaved parents and family members, giving them an important opportunity to thank the healthcare staff who cared for them and their babies. I hope this Award will shine a light on the difference that so many healthcare workers are making for bereaved parents every day.”
About the award
The Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care recognises the vital work of midwives, nurses, and other healthcare staff who support parents affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby. It honours Elaine Thorp, a midwife who championed compassionate bereavement care and pioneered efforts to listen to bereaved parents.
Elaine first recognised the need for better bereavement care in the late 1970s and became involved with Sands in 1991, later taking on the role of Bereavement Officer at Birmingham Women’s Hospital. She retired from the NHS in 2007 and died in 2013, but those who worked and volunteered alongside her continue to remember her with great affection.
Sands remains dedicated to supporting anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss for as long as they need it.