Baby loss memorial book to launch in Scotland
The service will be free of charge and voluntary
A memorial book for those who have experienced a pregnancy or baby loss is to be launched this Summer by the Scottish Government.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed that along with an entry in the book, those who have experienced a loss will be able to apply for a commemorative certificate.
The service which will be free of charge and completely voluntary is intended to give recognition and comfort to those who want to record their voice.
Applications to have an entry included in the book, produced jointly by the Scottish Government and National Records of Scotland, will go live this summer.
Making the announcement, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:
“The loss of a pregnancy or a baby is always painful. I have spoken in the past about my personal experience of miscarriage, and I know the sense of grief will stay with me and my husband forever. I also know that we would have drawn comfort at the time if there had been a way for us to mark the loss and formally recognise the child we were grieving.
“Launching this Memorial Book with the National Records of Scotland will give parents an opportunity – if they wish it - to commemorate their loss with a physical record, and to have their child recognised.
“I am very proud to support the Memorial Book and hope that it will bring comfort to those experiencing the pain of baby loss. I also hope that might also help break the silence and stigma around the loss of a pregnancy or a baby that sadly still exists in our society”.