Businesses and historic buildings appeared in pink and blue last week to mark international baby loss awareness week.
Shop fronts in Maldon were lit up and decorated for the fourth time as the town has supported families and those affected by the loss of a baby.
Businesses like Pocknells Accountants, Brights Solicitors, Mitchell’s Jewellers, Borough Flooring & Home amongst others took part in spreading awareness.
David Ridgewell, 39, launched the Baby Loss Awareness Maldon Facebook group with his wife Abby.
They introduced the lights and memorials in 202 following the death of their baby Max at just one day old in November 2019 after complications in labour.
Mr Ridgewell said: “This year the high street has once again stepped it up and embraced Baby Loss Awareness Week. More businesses than ever before have taken part by putting up lights and the high street is awash with pink and blue, we’re so pleased and it’s a really beautiful memorial to all the babies who should have come home but didn’t.”
Baby loss awareness week takes place every year from October 9 to October 15 and will see a “wave of light” services at All Saints Church in Maldon Hight Street for the affected families.
Those affected by the loss of a baby will be able to come together and light a candle in commemoration of their loved and lost babies, as well as meet with others who have experienced a similar loss.
A spokesman for Maldon Town Council said: “The experience of baby loss can feel very isolating for bereaved families as no one expects to leave hospital without their baby following a pregnancy, and bereaved families often don’t get an opportunity to talk about their loss, so this week aims to get people talking about something which affects one in four pregnancies.
“Now in its 21st year, Baby Loss Awareness Week is an alliance of more than 100 charities and organisations, aiming to raise awareness of the key issues around pregnancy and baby loss in the UK.
“The week is also a platform to call for tangible improvements in policy, research, bereavement care and support.”
Further information is available through the Facebook group.
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