A WOODLAND walk around the Lickey Hills is set to take place to raise funds for a centre for bereaved parents at Birmingham Women's Hospital.

The walk will raise funds for Birmingham Women’s Hospital Charity’s Woodland House Appeal to build a new, standalone bereavement centre built at the hospital site for parents who experience pregnancy or baby loss.

When complete, Woodland House will be the first of its kind in a hospital setting in the UK to provide families with a space to spend time together after losing a baby.

The team has £1 million to raise and is hosting the walk on Saturday October 1 in a push to raise the cash.

Karen Henson, Senior Bereavement Midwife at Birmingham Women’s Hospital, says: “Our hospital is one of only two dedicated Women’s Hospitals in the UK, with one of the largest maternity units, but sadly, every year, over 2,000 of our women and families experience pregnancy or baby loss.

"Even though we can’t ease the heartbreak of losing a precious child, we know that more has to be done to support families, and Woodland House will create an environment that recognises and honours their loss.

“The Lickey Hills enjoys some of the West Midlands’ most scenic views, so we encourage people to sign up to our Woodland Walk for a lovely day out. Plus, by getting sponsored, our wonderful supporters will be raising vital funds to help us lead the way in setting a new standard of aftercare for bereaved families.”

The walk is open to everyone and walkers are welcome to bring along a picnic.

Registration for the walk costs just £5 per adult and £2.50 per child, between five-16 years, with under-fives going free-of-charge.

Minimum sponsorship for the event is set at £50 per group.