Call for Jersey to break down stigma surrounding fertility struggles

A Jersey charity is calling on the island to break the stigma surrounding fertility struggles, and to encourage more open conversations.

National Fertility Awareness Week, running from 2 November to 6 November, aims to challenge myths and taboos around fertility, improve understanding of infertility, signpost support, and raise funds to help those affected.

A 2026 Tiny Seeds' survey found that:

• 64% of respondents said fertility challenges had a severe impact on their lives
• 70% reported grief or loss
• 67% reported low mood or depression
• 66% reported anxiety
• 53% reported social isolation or withdrawal
• 66% reported feelings of failure or inadequacy
• 7% disclosed experiencing suicidal thoughts because of what they were going through

Ioana Teslaru, who experienced fertility challenges, said:

"It took so long and it took so much out of us, it was a decade of grief. We became isolated, we couldn’t find it within us to socialise with our friends.

"And also, I have to say it took a toll on our marriage, we went through ups and downs."

Tiny Seeds offers support including one-to-one counselling, group crafting sessions, Q&A events, grants towards off-island IVF travel, and accommodation costs.

More than 160 off-isand IVF travel grants have been awarded since 2023.

Tiny Seeds is also taking inspiration from The Traitors, as it aims to raise more awareness of fertility struggles in Jersey.

On Saturday 7 November, the charity will host its 'Are You a Faithful?' fundraising dinner.

 

 

 

 

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A charity auction is also now open.

Chloé Fosse, Founder of Tiny Seeds, said: 

"Tiny Seeds was founded following my own lived experience of fertility struggles. After navigating multiple cycles of treatment over many years, I experienced first-hand how isolating the journey can be, alongside the practical and financial hurdles of accessing more higher-level fertility treatment off island. I felt that something needed to change, and I wanted to make sure that others going through similar experiences had access to 
the support, community and practical help that was so needed. 

"As we celebrate five years of Tiny Seeds, our mission remains the same: to make sure nobody in Jersey has to navigate fertility struggles alone. Fertility Awareness Week is an important opportunity to break down the stigma, encourage more open conversations and remind people that behind every statistic is someone experiencing an incredibly difficult journey. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, and we hope that the funds raised from Are you a Faithful? and our charity auction, will help us reach even more Islanders who need us."

Bidding for the auction runs until the fundraising dinner on Saturday 7 November.