The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Sands builds haven for grief
Fundraiser: Sad reminder in campaign to create ‘bereavement suite’
An Aberdeen charity which supports grieving parents has launched a bid to raise £142,000 for a bereavement suite at the city’s new family hospital.
Aberdeen Sands launched the fundraising drive to coincide with a nationwide campaign highlighting the fact that 15 babies die before, during or soon after birth each day in the UK.
The charity highlighted how the loss of a baby is not a rare tragedy by placing 15 babygrows on a washing line at Hazlehead Park.
The money raised will fund a designated unit within the proposed Baird Family Hospital and the Anchor Centre – a £150million facility due to be built at the Foresterhill Health Campus by 2020.
The hospital will include maternity, gynaecology, breast screening, symptomatic and surgical services while the Anchor Centre will provide outpatient and day-patient investigation and treatment services for patients with cancer and for people with blood disorders.
Sands hopes to build a private area – away from the labour ward – where women can deliver stillborn babies.
It will consist of two ensuite rooms and a family room.
The money raised will pay for decor, furnishings, non-medical equipment and supplies.
The charity’s Sandra Stephen said: “The aim is to create a peaceful environment to bring some comfort to families at such a devastating time.
“We’re looking at how lessons can be learned, how we can better communicate with families after the death of a baby and increase awareness of the fact that there is a support network available for those having to deal with such a trauma.
“The placing of 15 baby bodysuits on a washing line at Hazlehead Park not only highlights the campaign but also serves as a reminder that help is available from a local group that includes many members who have suffered personal loss.
“We have already been strongly supported by many people in the north of Scotland and we’re confident of achieving our target.”
Donations for the bereavement suite can be made at www.justgiving.com/AberdeenSands
“The aim is to create a peaceful environment to bring comfort”