The garden, at Parkside Cemetery in Kendal, will provide a place of remembrance and reflection for anyone who has experienced child or baby loss, pre or post birth.
The garden was officially opened at a special memorial service today attended by families, community groups, and representatives of all faiths and the council.
The service was led by the Rt Rev Rob Saner-Haigh, the Acting Bishop of Carlisle.
The Leader of the Council, Cllr Jonathan Brook was also in attendance and gave a special reading as part of the service.
He said: “Today we joined together at Kendal Parkside Road Cemetery, for a memorial service and the unveiling of a special memorial garden, created to honour and remember all babies, children, and young people whose lives were tragically lost, providing a space for collective mourning, reflection, and healing.
“This gathering was a time to acknowledge the lives of all children, babies and young people who’ve lost their lives too soon and an opportunity to offer prayers, and ensure they are never forgotten. We came together in love, remembrance, and unity to provide them the dignity and recognition they deserve.
“I would like to say a special thank you to Stephen Hindley, whose own family was impacted by child loss. He has campaigned for almost two decades to ensure the experiences of his family and those of many other families were heard. We’ve worked closely with Stephen to make sure we recognise his loss and the families he has campaigned for, and delivered a place where anyone affected by child loss can come and remember their loved ones both now and into the future. He should be so proud of all he’s achieved.”
Director of Thriving Communities at Westmorland and Furness Council, Steph Cordon, added: “We dedicate this garden and honour the memory of all those affected by baby loss in all its forms.
“Thank you to everyone who’s been involved in making today happen, including the families in attendance and the several local businesses and community groups who have contributed to the garden with donations; including Kendal Rotary Club, idverde, and Parkin and Jackson, and to Josh McLeod and the team at Parkside Cemetery for making this beautiful and meaningful garden a reality in such a short space of time.”