/Community Initiative to Map Memorial Spaces for Baby Loss
– MISS calls for public help in identifying memorial gardens and remembrance spaces across Scotland.
– The project aims to create a comprehensive resource for bereaved families facing pregnancy and baby loss.
– Focus on recognizing existing memorials and highlighting areas needing additional remembrance spaces.
MISS (Miscarriage Support) is urging communities throughout Scotland to assist in a vital initiative aimed at identifying and mapping memorial gardens and remembrance spaces dedicated to babies who are no longer with us. This national project seeks to provide bereaved families with meaningful locations to honor and remember their little ones during difficult times.
The initiative spans all 32 Scottish local authority areas, aiming to create an accessible resource detailing existing memorial spaces for families affected by pregnancy and baby loss. Such spaces can provide comfort and a lasting sense of connection during the grieving process. However, the lack of readily available information often leaves families unaware of the memorial spaces within their own communities.
With support from Sands, this mapping project led by MISS intends to gather information in one centralized national resource. This will help families discover locations for remembrance while identifying gaps where additional spaces may be necessary.
The project will explore a variety of memorial spaces, including dedicated gardens, benches, memorial stones, plaques, Trees of Tranquillity, and ‘Letters to Heaven’ post boxes. It acknowledges the diverse ways families choose to pay tribute to their babies.
“It’s about recognizing that every baby matters, every loss deserves acknowledgement, and every family should have the opportunity to remember in a way that feels right for them,” stated Leona Scott, Media Coordinator at MISS. She emphasized the importance of having a special place to remember, saying, “Losing a baby is something no family should have to face without compassion, understanding and support.”
The initiative builds on existing remembrance efforts by MISS, such as the Forget Me Not Memorial Garden at Hazlehead Crematorium in Aberdeen, developed in partnership with Aberdeen SANDS and Aberdeen City Council. This serene space is designed for reflection and honoring lost babies.
As MISS continues to support individual memorial spaces, this national project signifies a broader commitment to understanding and improving remembrance provision throughout Scotland. It aims to enhance awareness, collaboration, and opportunities for communities to create meaningful spaces for remembrance.
The charity is currently inviting public contributions, as well as input from local authorities, NHS boards, healthcare professionals, charities, and community organizations. MISS is particularly keen to hear from individuals who can provide details about existing memorial gardens and remembrance spaces, whether they are established memorial sites or less formal community areas.
“In Scotland, there are beautiful gardens, memorials and quiet spaces dedicated to remembering babies, but not everyone knows where to find them. We want to change that,” said Scott.
MISS hopes that through this initiative, families will find lasting resources that help them connect, reflect, and remember their loved ones, no matter where they are located in Scotland.
