The South Wales Police Baby Loss Support Group lit candles and shared a moment of reflection to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week.

The event was held in the Police Learning Centre at Force headquarters and included some words from Chief Inspector Catherine Loosemore and chaplain Reverand Ian Howells.

Ian Williams, a volunteer with the support group, read the poem An Angel Never Dies.

Sergeant Alison (Ali) Robinson, who helped launch the group, said: “He didn’t leave a dry eye in the house.”

Ali added: “We are grateful for the attendance and the support from the Force.”

An LED candle, a memory jar, and a memory tree will remain in place in the Police Learning Centre through Baby Loss Awareness Week until Tuesday 15 October for members who want to take a moment of reflection.

Sergeant Alison (Ali) Robinson at the event to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week.

Ali said: “We know that grief is a personal journey, and we hope that having this space will allow anyone who needs it the space to spend a moment to reflect.”

The Baby Loss Peer Support Group is made up of 16 volunteers who have received training from the charity Sands.

Ali said: “All of us find ourselves here for different, and similar, reasons.

“We want to provide support for our colleagues, regardless of gender, who are going through a loss, or those who have previously experienced a loss and would benefit from additional support.

“We also support colleagues and line managers who want to help their staff but can sometimes be confused by the personal nature of grief and the various policies in place.

“We can provide advice on how to hold sensitive conversations, support an individual, and facilitate a sympathetic return to work.”

Information, guidance and links are available on the Force intranet or e-mail BabyLossPeerSG@south-wales.police.uk 

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