Baby loss charity enlists public support

Baby loss charity Held In Our Hearts has launched its first-ever national fundraising campaign - the Miles That Matter Challenge.

It is inviting people across Scotland to join together this October to honour babies lost too soon and support bereaved families across the country.

The campaign will see participants collectively cover 6,000 miles - the length of Scotland’s breathtaking coastline - through walking, running, cycling, swimming, or moving in any way that feels right for them.

Each step taken will help raise funds to provide specialist baby loss counselling and support services to bereaved parents and families across Scotland.

The launch comes as Baby Loss Awareness Week (9th–15th October) approaches - a national moment of reflection and solidarity for families who have experienced the devastation of losing a baby.

“Every mile matters, just as every baby matters,” said Nicola Welsh, chief executive of Held In Our Hearts. “We hope this campaign will give families, friends, and supporters a meaningful way to come together, honour precious babies, and raise awareness of the support available.

“Whether you walk a single mile in memory or clock up dozens with friends, every step helps us continue providing vital care for families when they need it most.”

Participants are encouraged to raise £1 (or more) for every mile covered throughout this month. Progress can be tracked via Strava or shared in the Held In Our Hearts Facebook group, where weekly updates will celebrate the community’s collective distance.

Participants can sign up for the Miles That Matter Challenge, here