Charities unite for Baby Loss Awareness Week

Baby Loss Awareness Week takes place annually from 9-15 October and offers an opportunity to raise

awareness and talk openly about the subject of pregnancy, baby and infant loss.

A total of 24 charities have joined together to mark the week, which culminates with the international Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on Saturday, 15 October. Across the world, people are invited to take part in the global 'Wave of Light' at 7pm local time to remember all the babies that have died during pregnancy, at, during or after birth by lighting a candle and leaving it burning for an hour. Images of the burning candles are shared on social media using the hashtag #waveoflight.

Among other activities, throughout the week bereaved parents and their families will be sharing examples of something that someone said or did that helped them after their loss. It is hoped that this will inspire others and bring the issue out into the open.

Baby Loss Awareness Week is co-ordinated by Sands on behalf of a number of baby loss and children's charities united in their support for families who experience pregnancy loss or the death of a baby. Dr Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands, said: "Now in its 15th year we hope that this week will help families feel less isolated and alone by giving them the opportunity to join with others and remember their babies, whether it be in public or private, across the world."

For further information or for details on how you can support the campaign and the week, please visit www.babyloss-awareness.org