Today, 9 October, marks the beginning of Baby Loss Awareness Week, a time where those affected by pregnancy and baby loss come together as a community in a safe, supporting space, to remember the lives they created.
Statistics say that loss occurs once in every four pregnancies, a statistic that no-one wants to be party to and one that is so infrequently spoken about publicly. Since 2018, the Good Funeral Company has been a beacon of support for so many individuals and their families, when at their most vulnerable time. Over that time, we have advocated for parents, siblings and other family members, ensuring their voices are heard even in the darkest of times.
Leading a funeral where the focal point is supporting parents through the most heart-breaking time is the most delicate of privileges we encounter. Walking slowly with grief in the short time we have, giving those present a safe and sacred space to say goodbye, and offering the tiniest of souls to the hands of God is an enormous responsibility but one we are honoured to be part of.
This Baby Loss Awareness Week, we aim to keep gently breaking down to the taboo that surrounds pregnancy and baby loss, encouraging understanding and compassion through awareness and education. We want every parent to feel seen and heard in their grief, by opening up the space for honest conversations, healing and remembrance.
The week ends with a moving Wave of Light on 15 October at 7 pm where communities are invited to light a candle to remember all the babies who have died too soon. We encourage those who are able to participate in this simple act of remembrance to do so. The lighting of a candle connects families from all over the world, all with the same purpose of remembering their children. We as Christians believe that this light also reflects the love of Jesus Christ and that His love and light continues even in the darkest of times.
The theme of Christ’s love surrounds us in our work and in the support we offer to every family we have the honour of journeying with. We have the opportunity to come together, before the busyness of Advent and Christmas, to reflect and remember in the sanctuary of our Mother church. Every November, the Good Funeral Company host a service in the Lady Chapel of Liverpool Cathedral, called Forever Young. A service where families gather to remember and reflect, where the names of their babies are read aloud and their love, sadness and grief are brought before God, trusting in His comfort and eternal love.
All are welcome to join us on Wednesday 19 November at 7 pm as we gather to remember and give thanks for the love and light received from the smallest of hearts.
If you, or someone you know, would like further support please do get in touch. There are also a number of resources available through organisations like Sands who are the organisers behind Baby Loss Awareness Week.
