Families affected by the loss of a baby are being reminded that they do not have to face their grief alone as Baby Loss Awareness Week takes place until Thursday, October 15.

Each year, around 45 families across Torbay and the eastern part of the South Hams experience the heartbreak of losing a baby before, during or shortly after birth.

The week provides an opportunity to remember those babies, acknowledge the lasting impact of loss and raise awareness of the support available to bereaved families.

Supporting those families are Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust’s specialist bereavement midwives, Fay Martin and Anna Stewart, who provide compassionate care and practical support to parents during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Working closely with families during their hospital stay and beyond, the bereavement midwives help parents navigate complex decisions, create lasting memories of their baby and access ongoing emotional and practical support.

Earlier this year, Fay Martin received national recognition after being shortlisted for the prestigious Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care at the Sands Baby Loss Awards, which celebrates healthcare professionals who provide exceptional care to families affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby.

Fay Martin said: "The loss of a baby before, during or shortly after birth is devastating and can affect every member of a family in different ways and at different times.

"During Baby Loss Awareness Week, we remember every baby who has died and acknowledge the lifelong impact that loss can have on parents, siblings, grandparents and loved ones.

“We also want families to know that support is available and that they do not have to face their grief alone."

The Trust also works in partnership with Luna's Fund, a baby loss charity founded by bereaved mother Aimee Green. The charity expanded its services into Torbay and South Devon earlier this year to provide specialist support during pregnancy after loss, wellbeing breaks and opportunities for bereaved families to connect with others who have shared similar experiences.

As part of its ongoing support for bereaved families, the Trust will host its annual remembrance weekend this December.

Families who have experienced the loss of a baby or young child during pregnancy or in the early months of life are invited to attend a crafting session on Saturday, December 5 from 10am to midday at Torbay Hospital's Bayview Restaurant, followed by a remembrance service at 3pm on Sunday, December 6 at All Saints Church, Babbacombe.

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging anyone affected by baby loss to speak to their healthcare team about the support available.

During last year’s #WaveOfLight messages of remembrance and hope brought many people together.

The charities and organisations that take part in Baby Loss Awareness Week are committed to raising awareness of pregnancy and baby loss and providing support to anyone affected by pregnancy loss and the death of a baby.

For more information about the remembrance weekend, you can contact the Chaplaincy Team on 01803 654186.