Healthcare partners and local charities across Coventry and Warwickshire are coming together to support Baby Loss Awareness Week 2024 by hosting a special service at Coventry Cathedral. The service, open to anyone affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby, will be held on Sunday 13 October 2024, at 2:00pm. Last year, nearly 300 people attended this event.
The informal service will include readings, music, and a short talk by Sharon Darke, CEO of the Footprints baby loss charity (biography attached). Sharon, whose twin boys were born at 26 weeks and lived just a few days, will share her story, reflecting on her journey through grief and how she found hope for the future.
The event offers a space for attendees to connect with others who understand the impact of baby loss. The cathedral is a large, welcoming space where attendees can choose how much they wish to participate—whether sitting quietly at the back or sharing their story. Children and babies are also welcome.
Following the service, tea and cake will be served. There will also be an opportunity to light candles in memory of their little ones and attendees will be invited to draw chalk hearts on the floor of the Cathedral Ruins as a symbol of love and remembrance.
The organisers said: "We hope our uplifting service will provide comfort and connection to those who have experienced baby loss. Our goal is to help people feel less alone by offering a supportive space to remember their loved ones."
"We want everyone to know they are welcome—regardless of the reason for their loss or how long ago it happened. This event is for people of all cultures, religions, and backgrounds."
Wave of Light: To conclude Baby Loss Awareness Week, people across the world will light candles at 7:00pm on Tuesday 15 October, as part of the global Wave of Light. Participants are encouraged to share photos of their candles on social media using #WaveOfLight.
For more information about Baby Loss Awareness Week, visit www.
