A midwifery team is helping mark a week to bring together anyone affected by pregnancy and baby loss.
The team at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is taking part in baby loss awareness week.
The week has already included a hospital cake sale, raising £376 in aid of 4Louis, a charity working to support anyone affected by miscarriage, stillbirth and the death of a baby or child.
The week will also include a daily candle lighting service in memory of babies lost, in the spirituality centre at the University Hospital of North Tees where there will also be a tree of remembrance displayed.
An international wave of light national candle vigil will take place on Sunday 15 October at 7pm.
Laura Smith, the Trust’s first dedicated lead bereavement midwife, said: “Being a midwife is a chance to share in the joyous moment parents bring a new baby into the world – but sadly there are times when a baby dies too soon.
“This week is about remembering all those babies that have died too soon, showing our love and compassion to those who have experienced this.
“It is also our chance to highlight the support that is out there for anyone going through the loss of a baby and to raise money for those amazing charities doing so much to help too.”
Charity walk
The North Tees and Hartlepool SUDIC awareness group will also be taking part in the Little Stars Walk to raise money for the Lullaby Trust on tomorrow (Thursday) from 6pm at Seaton Carew car park – anyone coming is asked to bring a light or lantern along.
Specialist safeguarding midwives Laura Holroyd and Cath Flanagan are taking part in the walk – with £140 having already been raised.
Laura said: “This event is around raising awareness and vital funds for baby loss. By walking in the memory of a loved one, people will create a lasting impact in their name.
“Anyone is free to join the event – all we ask is you bring a candle lantern so we are shining brightly.
“I look forward to seeing as many people as possible there as we come together to pay our respects on such a special week.”
To donate to the cause visit here.