A midwifery team is coming together with those affected by baby loss as part of week to raise awareness.
The team at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust host a number of events every year as part of the national baby loss awareness week.
Last night, the midwives invited people affected to come along to a special walk along the seafront at Seaton Carew to raise funds for the Little Stars charity.
There will also be a service, hosted by the chaplaincy team at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, on Tuesday 15 October from 6.45pm to 7.30pm, in the spirituality centre at the hospital in Hardwick Road, Stockton.
Those attending will be invited to take part in the national ‘wave of light’ at around 7pm that evening, where people around the world can light a candle for at least one hour, to remember all babies that have died.
Bereavement midwife role
Laura Smith, the trust’s first bereavement midwife who was appointed in April last year, said: “As the bereavement midwife I feel the impact of baby loss for families in my care on a daily basis.
“I continuously think about the families who have endured the heartache of baby loss and who have needed my support.
“This week is a space for families to reflect, remember and grieve for their baby/babies and also allows wider members of the community to show their support for everyone affected by the loss of a baby.
“If you require any support following the loss of a baby at any gestation or age please reach out to support services.”
Baby loss walk
Laura Holroyd, specialist midwife in the safeguarding children’s team, who organised the seafront walk, said: “I want to thank everyone who turned up in the awful weather we had – despite the weather, there were even more people there than last year!
“There were midwives, safeguarding colleagues, student midwives, family, friends, members of the public (including those who have lost babies) and even a few dogs.
“We have all helped raise money and awareness for a fantastic cause.”
Support for people who have lost a baby: