Southampton Guildhall will be lit in pink and blue illuminations this week to support Baby Loss Awareness Week 2021.

The special week, now in its 19th year, runs until Friday and is an opportunity for bereaved parents, families, and friends to remember their babies’ lives.

Many people and organisations raise awareness about pregnancy and baby loss, push for improvements in care and support for those affected.

Suzanne Stockbridge from the charity Our Angel Bears said: “We hope turning the Guildhall pink and blue will spark conversations about baby loss and allow local bereaved parents and families to talk about their precious babies.”

This year’s event will focus on well-being, with discussions on what has helped parents recover and rebuild their lives following a pregnancy and baby loss.

Clea Harmer, chief executive of Sands (stillbirth and neonatal death charity), said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week is a unique opportunity for parents, grandparents, siblings and wider family and friends to come together and remember their babies who have passed away, however long ago.

“For anybody who has lost a child, whether recently or years ago, the world was irrevocably transformed, and there is no simple answer to grief. Finding ways to cope and look after yourself or your partner is different for everyone.

“I hope that the Guildhall being lit up pink and blue will help start more conversations about pregnancy and baby loss.” I believe it will help bereaved parents and families talk about their babies and find ways to look after themselves and others.”

All buildings and landmarks turning pink and blue for Baby Loss Awareness Week 2021 will be featured on the interactive map and the official Baby Loss Awareness Facebook page.

Anyone in Southampton can share their photos of the Guild Hall on social media with the hashtags #BLAW #BLAW2021 and #BabyLoss.

For further information about Baby Loss Awareness Week, visit: www.babyloss-awareness.org