October 8, 2026
Blue and pink lights will shine at Causeway Hospital in Coleraine marking the start of Baby Loss Awareness Week in the Northern Trust.
The annual campaign from October 9-15 will feature a number of special events and initiative giving families an opportunity to remember.
A Service of Remembrance will take place on Sunday 11 October at 3pm in Portrush Methodist Church, open to all those who have experienced a loss in pregnancy, or the death of a baby or child.
The special service will feature a tree of remembrance and an opportunity to view the book of remembrance.
Butterfly walls will be located outside the main entrance at Causeway Hospital on Monday 12 October from 11.30am -1.30pm and 6pm – 7.30pm, and in the Garden of Remembrance at Bush House, Antrim Area Hospital, on Tuesday 13 October from 2pm – 3.30pm and 6pm – 7.30pm. If you have experienced a loss in pregnancy, or the death of a baby or child, come along to place a butterfly on the wall as a symbol of love and remembrance.
On Thursday 15 October, the Garden of Remembrance will host a Wave of Light Memory Walk. Please meet at Bush House car park at 6:45pm before the walk begins at 7pm. Small LED candles will be provided to all those taking part.
If you would like your baby’s name to be included during the event, whether you are attending or not, please email Bereavement.SupportMidwife@northerntrust.hscni.net before 5pm on Wednesday 14 October or get in touch if you have any questions.
Bereavement Support Midwife Lesley-Ann Kennedy said: “The loss of a baby is something that stays with families forever.
“Baby Loss Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to come together, remember precious lives and recognise the experiences of those who have been affected.
“We would encourage parents, grandparents, siblings and extended family members to take part in the events planned throughout the week. We hope they offer a chance to reflect, share memories and find comfort in knowing that these babies are remembered and will never be forgotten.”
In her role, Lesley-Ann provides extra support to women and families who have experienced a bereavement at any stage while being cared for by our maternity, gynaecology, neonatal or community services.
If you would like to seek help or advice you can self-refer or alternatively, ask your midwife, nurse, community midwife, health visitor or GP.
Further information about maternity bereavement support.