The NI Pregnancy Loss Research & Policy Network

Pregnancy and baby loss is a complex and emotional experience. Many parents report it as a life-altering event with long-term implications on their health and well-being. Parents in this situation need compassionate, experienced and confident staff, as well as a thoughtful, efficient and individualised service. We aim to work with all key stakeholders involved in pregnancy and baby loss in Northern Ireland to develop a partnership and create research which is relevant, appropriate and guided by those affected and involved in providing care.

Purpose

We are a multi-disciplinary network aimed at building connections and enhancing collaboration between people with personal lived experience, academics, policymakers, practitioners, community and voluntary organisations with an interest in pregnancy and baby loss.

The aims of the NIPLRPN are to:

• Exchange ideas
• Create relevant research
• Build a partnership
• Develop relationships
• Improve care

Current Membership

The Network has a growing membership of around 50 service users, practitioners, policymakers,  community and voluntary organisation representatives, and academics with an interest in pregnancy and baby loss.

Network Presentation Series

The Network facilitates regular presentations of research and practice innovations related to pregnancy loss. Please find below recordings of some of our recent presentations.

New Members

New members are always welcome to join us. We want the NIPLRPN to be diverse, inclusive, and reflective of all those involved in pregnancy and baby loss. Members must be adults and participation is voluntary, with members able to resign at any time. We ask members to participate however they are able and willing.

Contribution and Activities

We envisage a flexible role with contact every 2-3 months. Members are under no obligation to participate in every event/communication and may participate as best fits their lives and schedules.

The tasks you will be invited to engage with will include:

• Attending group meetings
• Reviewing research material
• Providing opinions
• Offering advice and guidance on research and strategic directions
• Joining us as co-applicants on research projects

Reimbursement

Network members do not receive a salary as this role is voluntary and not paid. Any travel required for the role will be reimbursed.

Contact Us

The NIPLRPN is being led by Dr Áine Aventin, assisted by Dr. Eric Spikol. If you have any questions, concerns, or if you would like to join the network, please contact either of them:  

Dr Áine Aventin                                                                             Dr. Eric Spikol                                              

Lecturer                                                                                          Research Fellow

QUB School of Nursing & Midwifery                                         QUB School of Nursing & Midwifery

Email: a.aventin@qub.ac.uk                                                        Email: e.spikol@qub.ac.uk