A Service of Remembering Together

There will be a special service for parents who have experienced bereavement through the loss of a pregnancy or death of a baby. The service will take place on Sunday 4 October at 2.00pm and will be held in the chapel on level seven at Derriford Hospital.

The Chapel will be also be open from 1.00pm for the opportunity to meet other parents and talk things over with a chaplain or the bereavement midwife, as well as for personal and private acts of remembrance if desired.

The service will then include:

• Readings, reflections and prayers
• The reading of names of babies among those remembered who have died during pregnancy or shortly after birth
• The presentation of a white rose to each family as they leave

Paul Snell, Lead Hospital Chaplain, said: “It is a privilege for our team to be frequently involved in the care of families at a time of sadness and tragedy when they lose a baby. The hope and anticipation of new life is demolished leaving behind the emptiness of grief. So twice a year we give an opportunity for families to share together in a service which can bring comfort and, we hope, a measure of healing.

"The presence of others who have experienced similar situations can bring support and fresh ways forward for those who come. This short service is available to anyone who has lost a baby during pregnancy or during or shortly after birth, perhaps recently or even

many years ago. All are welcome to be here, perhaps to talk together before or afterwards, or simply to come and reflect with others.”