Ministers show support for those affected by baby loss

Date published: 13 October 2025

Ministers attended an event in Parliament Buildings, organised by the White Butterfly Foundation, to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week.

During the event, they heard about the experiences of parents and families who have been affected by miscarriage, baby loss and neonatal death.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This week is about breaking the silence around something too often met with stigma, the devastating loss of a baby during pregnancy or soon after birth.

“It’s about honouring the babies who are loved and remembered and showing every parent who has endured this heartbreak that you are not alone.

“Losing a baby is utterly heartbreaking and can bring a grief that feels invisible. To all the parents, families and campaigners who have been affected by miscarriage and baby loss, I am truly inspired by your courage and determination to make sure others don’t face this alone.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week is a time to remember all those babies who were loved and cherished and to acknowledge the pain and suffering of those who grieve their loss.

“The services provided by the White Butterfly Foundation are so important, not just in helping parents as they navigate their way through the dark days of an unthinkable loss, but also in the months and years ahead.

“I want to thank all of the Foundation’s volunteers who provide support and give hope to all of those who have experienced such unimaginable loss.”

The event also saw the unveiling of the Timeless Tiles Memorial. The memorial was co-ordinated by The White Butterfly Foundation and features hundreds of ceramic tiles which were crafted and personalised by bereaved parents to honour each baby's memory.

Selina Casey, founder of The White Butterfly Foundation, said: “The White Butterfly Foundation has been set up by bereaved parents, for bereaved parents, offering compassionate support for families who have experienced miscarriage, baby loss, and neonatal death.

“We are delighted the First Minister and deputy First Minister could attend the unveiling of the Timeless Tile Memorial Wall, which features hundreds of handcrafted ceramic tiles personalised to honour each baby's memory, and offer their support to families who have lost a baby in pregnancy or after birth.”