The wording of a question on this year’s Census has become a subject of controversy, with many women taking to social media to express the feelings it triggered.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics asked participants ‘how many babies has (name) ever given birth to?’, prompting painful memories of still-births and miscarriages for grieving families.
Participants were told to exclude any foster, adopted and step children.
Red Nose Co-Chief Executive Officer, Jackie Mead said she was disappointed to see the question worded so poorly, saying it could be “so offensive to many women, including the women who have lost a baby”.
“Many women have told us they are upset and confused about the abrupt way this question was worded and many were left in tears while completing their census.
“Sadly, one in four Australian pregnancies end in miscarriage and one in 135 ends in stillbirth. This is an issue that affects so many women,” she said.
A spokesperson from Yarra Ranges mum’s group, Mums of the Hills, said local mums were upset by the lack of prior warning they had for the question.
Red Nose said it is available anytime should the ABS wish to contact them about future Census questions that may adversely affect women’s mental health, particularly the many grieving the loss of a much wanted baby.
“Red Nose Day on Friday this week helps fund our 24/7 grief and loss support services, and we encourage women feeling upset today to call us on the Red Nose Grief and Loss 24/7 Support Line 1300 308 307.”
