A SPECIAL memorial service is being held in Redditch for families who have been affected by the loss of a baby.

Regardless of background or faith anyone who has experienced an early pregnancy loss, stillbirth or neonatal death is being invited to attend the special memorial service in memory of their loved ones.

Music, poetry, readings and prayers will all be included in the gentle service.

The memorial service, including Music, poetry, readings and prayers, has been organised by the Alexandra Hospital’s spiritual and pastoral care team, St Peter’s Church and Thomas Brother’s Funeral Directors.

It is hoped the morning can provide a space for families to begin to understand their loss and remember their babies by lighting candles in their memory.

There will be the chance for families to mingle and talk over tea and coffee following the service, families can then chat to Trudy Berlet, bereavement midwife at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the Alexandra Hospital.

Ms Berlet, said: “We arranged this service to bring families together who have experienced the tragic loss of a child. We know the incredible impact this loss makes on a family.

"This is an opportunity to come together to remember, as well as get some comfort from others who’ve been through the same thing.”

Chaplain for Alexandra Hospital, Rev David Ryan, said: “Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. In my role as chaplain at the hospital I meet many parents who have experienced the loss of a baby through early or late miscarriage, still birth or neonatal death.

“I hope that this special service will be a way for families to remember their little ones and help continue the healing process.”

The Alexandra Hospital in Redditch has a special memorial garden for families who have lost a child and there is a memorial book for babies in the hospital’s multi-faith prayer room.

The service is taking place at 11am on Saturday, May 16 at St Peter’s Church in Ipsley.

For more information, call 01527 505723 or email david.ryan@worcsacute.nhs.uk.