Parents invited to baby loss memorial service

The annual service is organised by midwives at Noble's Hospital

Parents who have lost a child through still birth or miscarriage have been invited to a special service offering a quiet time to remember them.

The annual Still Treasured, Always Remembered Service will take place at St Thomas' Church in Douglas at 14:00 GMT on 7 January.

Music, poems and readings about baby loss will be shared to allow those attending the space to remember their lost ones.

Manx Care's lead for Bereavement Dianne Rubery said it was an important opportunity for those who had experienced the loss of a baby to receive support.

The service will be held on 7 January at St Thomas' Church in Douglas

Midwives from Noble's Hospital have organised the annual service for nine years to support bereaved families.

Ms Rubery said it was "vital" that those impacted were "able to talk about the struggles they may be experiencing".

"I would encourage anyone who feels this would be helpful to them to come along," she added.

Last month Manx Care introduced bereavement certificates for parents who had lost a baby within the first 24 weeks of pregnancy.

A starlight walk was also held to raise awareness about that initiative.