Baby loss service to offer 'quiet reflection'

Those attending will have the opportunity to light a candle in remembrance

Parents and families of "babies who did not grow up" have been invited to attend a service of quiet reflection and remembrance on the Isle of Man.

The Baby Loss Remembrance Service takes place at St Thomas' Church in Douglas at 19:00 BST.

The Reverend Liz Hull said the multi-faith service was open to everyone who wanted to reflect, and would allow those in need of support to be further signposted.

She said it was "not like a traditional service" but would see those attending light candles in memory of "those who've been lost and have a quiet, reflective time and listen to music and some thoughts and some prayers".

Organised in conjunction with Manx Care, it marks the first time the service has been held to coincide with Baby Loss Awareness week and replaces the annual Star - Still Treasured, Always Remembered – service previously held in January.

The service is being held at St Thomas' Church in Douglas

Ms Hull said baby loss could be "quite a hidden thing" that was "difficult to share with other people".

"But it's obviously still a huge bereavement that needs to be acknowledged and shared," she said.

"It's also quite valuable for the midwives and the people who work on the team who also experience that loss as well."

Refreshments afterwards would provide an opportunity for people to speak to the midwives, she said.

"We just hope that it's an opportunity to reflect and gain some hope and some sustenance," she added.

Dianne Rubery, Manx Care's bereavement lead midwife, said: "It's a gentle opportunity for anyone affected by baby loss to come together, reflect, and honour their little ones in a peaceful setting.

"We hope it brings comfort and connection to those who need it."