As Baby Loss Awareness Week takes place this October, we are shining a light on the realities of pregnancy and baby loss and the importance of ensuring women and families have somewhere to turn for support.
National research shared as part of Baby Loss Awareness Week has highlighted how little is understood about the scale of pregnancy and baby loss across the UK. Less than 3 in 10 people are aware that around 13 babies die shortly before, during or soon after birth every day in the UK. The research also found that 71% of people cannot name a charity supporting those affected by pregnancy or baby loss.
Through our Cherry Blossom project, we provide support for women who have experienced infant loss, birth trauma and IVF. This includes professional counselling alongside a monthly peer support group, giving women the opportunity to talk openly, share experiences and connect with others who understand.
We know that grief does not have a timeframe, and that baby loss can affect women and families in many different ways. Sometimes people need professional support, sometimes they need to speak to someone who has been through something similar, and sometimes they simply need somewhere they feel safe enough to not be okay.
Our annual Cherry Blossom Church Remembrance Service gives women, families and members of the community an opportunity to come together to remember the babies we have lost. It is a quiet space to reflect, light a candle and honour every life, whether the loss was recent or many years ago.
We also hold an annual Cherry Blossom Sponsored Walk, bringing our community together to remember babies lost while raising vital funds for the project. The money raised helps us continue providing counselling and peer support to women who may otherwise feel isolated in their grief.
Kate Blakemore, our CEO and a fertility counsellor, said:
“Baby loss can be incredibly isolating, and there can be so many emotions that are difficult to put into words. It is so important that women know they do not have to go through this alone. Cherry Blossom gives women somewhere they can come, be heard and feel supported. We also know that loss does not have a timeframe. For some women, a loss that happened years ago can still have a massive impact. That is why remembrance and ongoing support are so important to us. Every baby matters, every story matters and every woman deserves compassionate support.“
Our Women’s Centre in Crewe is also creating a safe and welcoming space for women and girls who may be struggling or simply need somewhere to go. Whether someone is experiencing grief, struggling with their mental health, navigating pregnancy or motherhood, or simply needs someone to talk to, we want our Centre to be a place where women feel welcome, listened to and supported.
As the Women’s Centre develops, we also plan to introduce a medical-grade room, creating a suitable space for midwife appointments and other healthcare services. We hope this will make it easier for women to access appropriate support within an environment where they already feel safe and comfortable.
For us, Baby Loss Awareness Week is not just about raising awareness. It is about reminding women and families that they are not alone, that their babies will always matter and that support is available.
Every baby remembered. Every story matters. Every woman supported.
For more information about Cherry Blossom, our Women’s Centre or upcoming fundraising events, visit www.her-place.co.uk or join HER Community on Facebook.