Monmouth Town Council, as part of their pledge as Sands Champion, organised and participated in several events as part of Baby Loss Awareness Week (9th to 15th October).

Baby Loss Awareness Week, now in its 22nd year, was an opportunity for everyone in the baby loss community and beyond to come together to remember and commemorate our much-loved and missed babies.

The week also provided an opportunity to raise awareness of the impact of pregnancy and baby loss; the importance that bereavement support plays in the ongoing bereavement journey; and of the vital work that is needed to improve pregnancy outcomes and to save babies’ lives. 

A Ribbon Display took place from 9th October at St. Mary’s Priory Church gates (Whitecross Street side) until 15th October’s and a "Wave of Light" walk from Shire Hall to St. Mary's Church, where families and individuals were invited to light a candle at 7pm for their lost babies and stayed for a short service of remembrance.

Additionally, the Town Council is hoping to raise £500 for Sands, which supports anyone affected by pregnancy loss and the death of a baby to offer understanding and comfort. Every day, Sands works to improve the care, discover why babies are dying and reduce inequalities in healthcare.

Events and Marketing Officer for Monmouth Town Council, Genevieve Barker, will be completing a 50k Fitness Challenge that week (when not at work) during Baby Loss Awareness Week to assist the Council’s initiative in raising funds and awareness. "We all have been touched by baby loss in some way, and this initiative is so important to show that those in our community are not alone in grief.”

Few experiences can compare to the trauma and pain of pregnancy and baby loss. During this Baby Loss Awareness Week, we will acknowledge that finding ways to nurture your mental and physical wellbeing is a vital part of anyone’s bereavement journey.

Mayor David Evans, Wyesham Ward Councillor, adds: "I am particularly grateful for the Town Council's decision to support Baby Loss Awareness Week and our Events and Marketing Officer's personal commitment. My family has been impacted and, although each family's bereavement journey is unique to them, I hope that anyone on that journey will find some solace in joining with others for the 'Wave of Light'."

Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands and Chair of the Baby Loss Awareness Alliance, said: “Following their loss, families find themselves on a new path they never expected to be on. Together, we care for ourselves and each other as part of a community of people affected by all forms of pregnancy and baby loss.

“Grief affects every person differently and can change over time, even during Baby Loss Awareness Week itself. It can be extremely hard for any bereaved person to speak out on the issues that matter to them, if they do not have the time and tools to care for themselves first. Self-care is essential, so you can sustain yourself and be able to raise awareness in a way that’s right for you. 

 “I hope that Monmouth Town Council’s efforts during Baby Loss Awareness Week as a Sands Champion will help reassure anyone who finds themselves navigating this journey, whether recently bereaved or longer ago, that there is a community that understands and is here for you, whatever you need – be it guidance, shared stories or simply a listening ear to help and offer comfort. You are not alone.”

Explore www.babyloss-awareness.org to discover self-care advice and ways you can get involved during the week.

For further information, please contact: [email protected]