Bereavement midwives to host charity Woodland Walk

Bereavement midwives at Birmingham Women 's Hospital are calling upon members of the public to join a sponsored walk at Lickey Hills Country Park this October, in support of their patients.

It 's in aid of Birmingham Women 's Hospital Charity 's Woodland House Appeal which will see a new, standalone bereavement centre built at the hospital site for parents who experience pregnancy or baby loss.

When complete, Woodland House will create a safe haven, away from the hustle and bustle of the main hospital, where families who have lost a baby can spend time together in safe, secure and serene surroundings before they feel ready to face the world again. It will be the first of its kind in a UK-hospital setting.

The Woodland House Appeal is Chamber president Steve Allen 's chosen charity of the year.

With just £1million left to raise, to make Woodland House a reality, the team of bereavement midwives have organised a Woodland Walk to boost funds.

The event, which will be Birmingham Women 's Hospital Charity 's first ever Woodland Walk, will take place on Saturday 2 October at Lickey Hills Country Park and is open to anyone.

The day will include a sponsored 5km walk around the lush and picturesque Lickey Hills and an area of reflection and remembrance.

Refreshments will be available but participants are also welcome to bring and enjoy a picnic as they share in the day with family and friends.

Karen Henson, senior bereavement midwife at Birmingham Women 's Hospital, said: “Our hospital is one of only two dedicated Women 's Hospitals in the UK, with one of the largest maternity units, but sadly, every year, over 2,000 of our women and families experience pregnancy or baby loss.

“Even though we can 't ease the heartbreak of losing a precious child, we know that more has to be done to support families, and Woodland House will create an environment that recognises and honours their loss.

“The Lickey Hills enjoys some of the West Midlands ' most scenic views, so we encourage people to sign up to our Woodland Walk for a lovely day out. Plus, by getting sponsored, our wonderful supporters will be raising vital funds to help us lead the way in setting a new standard of aftercare for bereaved families. ”

Registration for the walk costs just £5 per adult and £2.50 per child (between five-16 years), with under-fives going free-of-charge. Minimum sponsorship for the event is set at £50 per group.

To find out more about Birmingham Women 's Hospital Charity 's Woodland Walk and sign up, click here or call 0121 335 8040.

Pictured: An artist's impression of Woodland House