Charities and health professionals in Scotland have helped design a baby loss memorial book, open to anyone who has experienced pregnancy or baby loss prior to 24 weeks.
The book gives parents the opportunity to commemorate their loss with a physical record. The free service was produced by the Scottish Government and National Records of Scotland after speaking with parents who have experienced baby loss.
First Minister Humza Yousaf launched the book at a visit to baby loss charity, Held In Our Hearts:
‘The loss of a baby at any stage of pregnancy has a profound impact on everyone affected, and the Scottish Government has listened to parents who told us how difficult it was that they often felt that their loss was not recognised.
‘We have worked with health professionals, Royal Colleges, baby loss charities and National Records of Scotland to develop a Memorial Book of Pregnancy and Baby Loss, which provides a record of the loss, and a commemorative certificate.’
The announcement came just before Baby Loss Awareness Week (9 to 15 October), which runs across the UK. This week, the Baby Loss Awareness Alliance (BLLA), alongside charities such as Sands and Tommy’s, will be offering support and raising awareness for those affected by baby loss throughout the UK.
Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands and Chair of the BLLA said of the book:
‘We hope that anyone who has been affected by pregnancy and baby loss prior to 24 weeks will find comfort in this new Memorial Book. We understand how vital it is for those who experience a bereavement at any stage in pregnancy to have their baby acknowledged and remembered and know that their babies’ lives mattered.’
Applications for the book can be made here.
To find out more about the awareness week and support available, see babyloss-awareness.org.
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