THE SDLP’s Mark H Durkan MLA has thanked the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Brian Tierney for lighting of council buildings pink and blue to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week (9-15 October.)
Mr Durkan said visible public awareness campaigns such as this, which runs for the month of October, helps break the silence around the difficult subject of neonatal deaths and stillbirths.
The Foyle MLA commented: “Every year I am approached by parents who have lost their babies to mark this important week and help raise awareness of stillbirths and neonatal death.
“Events this week, including lighting council buildings with the Sands campaign official colours albeit a small acknowledgement, is a crucial one.
“Actions such as this help open a dialogue among people who have been affected by the unimaginable loss of their babies through miscarriages and stillbirths; a subject which is often treated as a taboo.
“It is clear that further support provision is needed to assist with the psychological, emotional and social distress experienced by families following the loss of a baby.
“No mother or father should be left suffering in silence.
“However, charities like Sands have and continue to provide invaluable support to bereaved parents during such a difficult time.
“By creating an increased awareness, we can ensure the best possible support and care for parents when they need it most.”
