Following last October’s poignant milestone, when baby loss and safer pregnancy charity Philip’s Footprints announced it had donated more than 500 memory boxes to bereaved families.
The charity enters Baby Loss Awareness Week 2026 having provided a further 75 boxes to bereaved Jersey families.
These memory boxes are given to families experiencing the loss of a child, from the earliest loss through to infancy and the death of a child up to the age of 18.
Containing carefully chosen memory making items and keepsakes such as tiny teddies, “Star” baubles, a “heart to hold” and bespoke candles, as well as support information, the memory boxes help families create memories during the precious time they have with their baby or child. For early losses where it can be difficult to create tangible memories, the boxes provide that recognition their baby mattered, no matter how small.
Mrs Jo Nash, Founder of Philip’s Footprints said: “Each box represents a life not lived and a family whose world may be changed forever. We hope parents know they are not alone, that their child will always be remembered, and that their memory box offers comfort not only at the time of loss but for many years afterwards.”
Philip’s Footprints was founded in 2008 by Jo and Paul Nash following the tragic stillbirth of their second son, Philip. What began as a way to offer comfort to other grieving parents has grown into a charity that supports bereaved families while also promoting safer pregnancies for the 700 babies born in Jersey each
year.
More than a decade ago, the charity expanded its mission through its Safer Pregnancy Projects. Inspired by a sentiment often expressed by bereaved parents, “We just don’t want others to go through what we did”. These initiatives aim to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce preventable loss in Jersey.
The Fort Regent Dome and the General Hospital will join landmarks across the UK illuminated in pink and blue during Baby Loss Awareness Week, from 9th to 15th October. The week provides an opportunity for bereaved parents, families and friends to commemorate babies’ lives and help break the silence surrounding pregnancy and baby loss.
With 1 in 4 pregnancies ending in loss, more than 100 charities will be using social and mainstream media to raise awareness, encourage understanding and start important conversations.
Mrs Nash stated: “This week will spark conversations about baby loss and give local bereaved parents and families an opportunity to talk about their precious babies and feel less isolated in their grief. While Baby Loss Awareness Week is a valuable opportunity to raise awareness, it is just that – one week.
” We hope those who know a bereaved parent will be mindful that, for them, it’s not just one week, it’s every day.”
More information about the Philip’s Footprints annual Starlight Walk can be found here.
