Baby Loss Awareness Week in the Northern Trust

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is marking Baby Loss Awareness Week (October 9 -15) with a number of special events and initiatives.

Now in its 21^st year, the annual campaign is an opportunity to come together to remember and commemorate much-loved and missed babies.

A Service of Remembrance will take place on Sunday 8^th October at 3pm in Our Lady and St Patrick’s Church, Ballymoney. This event is open to all those who have experienced a loss in pregnancy, or the death of a baby or child.

At Antrim and Causeway Hospitals, Butterfly Remembrance Walls will be set up where you can place a butterfly as a symbol of remembrance. At Antrim Area Hospital, the wall will be located outside the Day Assessment Unit and will be open on Monday 9^th October from 11am-noon and Thursday 12th October from 3pm – 4pm and 6pm – 7pm.

At Causeway Hospital, the wall will be available outside the main entrance on Monday 9th October from 3pm-4pm, Tuesday 10th October from 11am-12noon and Wednesday 11^th October from 7pm – 8pm.

On Friday 13^th October a Wave of Light Memory Walk will bring people together at the Garden of Remembrance at Antrim Area Hospital. Please meet at Bush House car park at 6:45pm with the walk beginning at 7pm. Small LED candles will be provided to all those taking part.

If you would like your baby’s name read out during the event (whether you are in attendance or not), please email Bereavement.SupportMidwife@northerntrust.hscni.net.before 5pm on Thursday 12^th October or get in touch if you have any questions.

Northern Trust Bereavement Midwife Lesley-Ann Kennedy said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week encourages us to openly recognise baby loss, and acknowledge its impact on so many families.

“We hope our events will bring some comfort to all those who have been bereaved, by offering opportunities to remember and reflect, and helping people to see that support is available regardless of what step of your journey you are on.”

“In my role I work with women and families who have experienced a loss at any stage. You can refer yourself or alternatively, ask your midwife, nurse, community midwife, health visitor or GP, so please reach out if you think this could benefit you.”

5th October 2023