It is Baby Loss Awareness Week, and I was humbled to visit Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital where I found out more about the important work of both the staff who support parents, and the parents who support one another.
The aim of this week is to raise awareness of the profound impact of pregnancy and baby loss. Many of you will know that I have consistently championed the cause of improved maternity services across the country, but bereavement support is an essential part of the healing journey for those affected by baby loss and it is so important that we talk about this too.
I was moved by the stories and experiences shared by the parents I met. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to coping with such a loss. Some find solace through services provided by hospitals or support organisations, while others draw strength from their own communities, communities such as Sands United, which are football teams set up right across the country to support fathers going through these difficult times.
Last year's Wave of Light was a powerful reminder of how messages of remembrance and hope can bring people together during challenging times. Please remember that you are not alone and that Hampshire Hospitals, and charities such as Sands, are here to provide support to all those affected by baby loss.
Find out more about Baby Loss Awareness Week at: babyloss-awareness.org
And if you’d like to join Sands United, then you can find a team at: sands.org.uk/sands-united
