York Hospital to turn pink and blue

York Hospital will show its support for Baby Loss Awareness week this October by once again turning the lights on the hospital blue and pink, to help highlight the emotional impact of pregnancy and baby loss.

The annual awareness week (9-15 October), now in its 18th year, is an opportunity for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss, and their families and friends to unite with others across the world, to commemorate their babies’ lives and lost pregnancies.

Beverley Shelley, maternity bereavement midwife at York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“We hope turning the hospital pink and blue will spark conversations about baby loss and give local bereaved parents and families an opportunity to talk about their precious babies.

“Pregnancy loss or the death of a baby is a tragedy that affects thousands of people every year. It is devastating for parents and families and it’s vital they get the bereavement support and care they need, for as long as they need it.”

There are around 50 families a year who will sadly suffer a loss of their baby at York Hospital and a brand new maternity bereavement suite is planned at York Hospital to support these families.

Beverley added:

“We know from talking to families who have used our existing space how important these facilities are. Having a new maternity bereavement suite will give our families the best possible experience at one of the worst times of their lives. It will provide somewhere they feel safe and cared for, where families can make memories to last a lifetime.”

Families can get involved and make a difference by donating to the appeal online.

Baby Loss Awareness week culminates on 15 October with the global ‘Wave of Light’ when families across the world are invited to take part by lighting a candle at 7pm and leave it burning to join in remembering all babies that have died too soon.

A small blessing and the lighting of candles in the Chapel at York Hospital will be shared across the Trust’s Facebook page, at this same time.

• york hospital
• baby loss
• york teaching hospital nhs foundation trust