Babyloss UK - A small charity a day in May - Day Nine.

Welcome to day nine of Week Two - when pregnancy goes wrong where I highlight those small charities that help parents cope when pregnancy goes wrong.

For an introduction to the entire series please visit http://llmcalling.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/small-charity-day-in-may.html

Babyloss is a UK-based resource of information and support for bereaved parents and their families who have lost a baby at any stage of pregnancy, at birth, or due to neonatal death. The organisation was established in 2000, and is run by a small team of volunteer administrators and forum moderators.

Babyloss Awareness Week - how it all began - October 15th 2002 saw the first Awareness Day to be held in the UK by Babyloss.com. It was initiated to raise awareness of the emotional impact of pregnancy loss and infant loss, and, through the sale of blue and pink ribbon pins, to support major UK charities that are instrumental in supporting bereaved parents.

The first event raised several thousand pounds from the sale of ribbon pins. Profits were split between the following five national organisations, in recognition of the tireless support that they give to bereaved parents and their families: ARC (Antenatal Results and Choices), the Babyloss fund, Ectopic Pregnancy Trust, Miscarriage Association and SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society).

Since then, the campaign has continued its early success, raising awareness of the impact of pregnancy/infant loss and raising vital support funds. Events have featured in the national and regional media, with wide coverage on TV, in the press and on the major parenting websites. Central and regional services of remembrance form an emotional highlight of each Awareness Week.

They also join the global Wave of Light on October 15th, linking up with bereaved families across the world to light a candle in memory of lost babies. Many local balloon releases and services of remembrance are held across the UK, giving bereaved parents and their families the opportunity of quiet reflection.

How can I get involved with Babyloss? - The babyloss website is run by volunteers, who give up their time to support other bereaved parents, organise fundraising and remembrance events, and update the website.

For more information please visit their website http://www.babyloss.com/about_us.php