NHS Lanarkshire’s hospitals will be lit up pink and blue to show support for Baby Loss Awareness Week.

The initiative, now in its 22nd year, aims to unite the pregnancy and baby loss community and increase understanding of the impact of loss.

The week, which runs October 9 to 15, also provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of bereavement support and the work needed to improve pregnancy outcomes and save babies’ lives.

Julie Ann Tierney, bereavement specialist midwife at University Hospital Wishaw, said: "We hope turning our three acute hospitals pink and blue will spark conversations about pregnancy and baby loss, and let local bereaved parents and families know we are thinking of them during this time and support them in their ongoing journey.

"Few experiences can compare to the trauma and pain of pregnancy and baby loss.

"During this Baby Loss Awareness Week, we will acknowledge that finding ways to nurture your mental and physical wellbeing is a vital part of anyone’s bereavement journey.”

Clea Harmer, chief executive of SANDS and chair of the Baby Loss Awareness Alliance, said: "Following their loss, families find themselves on a new path they never expected to be on.

"Together, we care for ourselves and each other as part of a community of people affected by all forms of pregnancy and baby loss.

“I hope that NHS Lanarkshire hospital’s being lit up pink and blue during October will help reassure anyone who finds themselves navigating this journey, whether recently bereaved or longer ago, that there is a community that understands and is here for you, whatever you need – be it guidance, shared stories or simply a listening ear to help and offer comfort.

"You are not alone."

The week will conclude with the global Wave of Light on October 15.

Everyone is invited to light a candle at 7pm as a special mark of support and remembrance.