York’s historic Bar Walls will be bathed in pink and blue light this week, to raise awareness of Baby Loss Awareness Week (9-15 October).

Shining a light on the issue, the bar walls will be lit on Friday 15 October, as part of a national wave of light, to show solidarity to all those who are lighting a candle to remember and reflect on their loss.

The theme this year is Wellbeing, and will explore what this means to people from all walks of life who have been affected by pregnancy and baby loss. This includes recognising that health workers, who have been under immense pressure during the pandemic, can only look after bereaved families with empathy and kindness if they themselves are supported.

Parents and families will be invited to remember their baby in a way that suits them. It is important to remember there is no right or wrong way and that it can change as the years pass too.

Cllr Carol Runciman, the council’s Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:

Pregnancy and baby loss affects so many people and families. Baby Loss Awareness Week is an opportunity for us all to shine a light on the issue, ensuring that York residents know that they are not alone, that it is ok for them to share their experiences and that support is available.”

More information is available on Baby Loss Awareness Week at https://babyloss-awareness.org/

Other online sources of support and information include Child bereavement uk https://www.childbereavementuk.org/ and Tommys https://www.tommys.org/