The tragic history of stillborn babies buried in unmarked graves across the UK is a story that has often been left untold. From Oldham to Plymouth, numerous mass graves containing the remains of these infants have been discovered, shedding light on a heartbreaking practice that persisted until the 1990s.
The Tragic Discovery of Mass Graves
The recent discovery of a mass grave in Oldham containing 303 bodies, including children and babies, has brought to light a painful past. Sadly, this was a common practice where stillborn babies were taken from their parents and buried in unmarked graves in various cemeteries across the UK.
Pioneering Efforts to Help Bereaved Families
Among those working tirelessly to help bereaved families is Paula Jackson from Guildford. Paula has identified the final resting places of nearly 3,500 stillborn babies, including the son of Yvonne Maher.
Yvonne Maher, from Plumstead, South London, has expressed profound gratitude towards Paula for finding her son’s grave 40 years after he was stillborn. This discovery has brought some peace to mothers who have spent years wondering about the fate of their children.
Paula’s efforts led to recognition by MPs, resulting in a 2020 agreement that mothers should be informed about the whereabouts of their stillborn babies’ remains.
The Role of Charities in Supporting Bereaved Parents
The baby loss charity Sands has been a beacon of hope for families dealing with the death of a baby. With 13 families a day in Britain experiencing such loss, the charity offers essential emotional support and guidance.
Jen Coates, Sands’ director of bereavement support, emphasizes that the discovery of mass graves like the one in Oldham is devastating for any parent who suspects their baby is buried there.
Sands provides advice and support for anyone trying to find a baby’s grave, ensuring that they do not navigate this emotional journey alone.
Mapping Mass Graves Worldwide
Bournemouth University is actively involved in mapping mass graves worldwide and recently released guidance on the subject. Their research provides much-needed clarity and assistance to those seeking answers about the final resting places of their loved ones.
Gina Jacobs, a bereaved mother, discovered her baby son’s grave in Birkenhead 53 years after he was stillborn. This revelation came after she watched a BBC series on the issue, leading her to take action and find her son’s grave.
Official Recognition and Apologies
The emotional weight of these discoveries has led to calls for official apologies and recognition. Gina Jacobs, after finding her baby’s grave, has been advocating for an official apology, a cause that has been raised in Parliament by her local MP, Margaret Greenwood.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has acknowledged the incredible strength of people like Gina, though an official apology has yet to be issued.
The Heartbreaking Discovery in Oldham
The unmarked grave discovered at Royton Cemetery in Oldham contains the remains of 145 stillborn infants, 128 babies and young children, and 29 adults. The adults are believed to be ‘pauper’s burials’ for individuals whose families couldn’t afford proper burials.
Local councillors Maggie Hurley and Jade Hughes have voiced their determination to ensure these babies are named, recognized, and never forgotten. They have called for a memorial at the cemetery, a discussion to be held at a council meeting in September.
A Ray of Hope: Changes in Burial Practices
Thankfully, burial practices have evolved. Today, parents of stillborn babies are involved in decisions about their infants, often opting for cremation or burial as per their wishes. Government support ensures that funerals for stillborn babies and children up to 18 are funded, alleviating some of the financial burden on grieving families.
Arooj Shah, the leader of Oldham Council, has expressed support for families affected by the recent discoveries, emphasizing that current practices respect parents’ wishes and ensure proper memorialization of their loved ones.
The digitalization of records and the erection of suitable memorials are steps being taken to offer closure and recognition to the families involved.
Conclusion
The uncovering of mass unmarked graves is a stark reminder of the painful past faced by many parents of stillborn babies. However, through the efforts of individuals like Paula Jackson and organizations like Sands, significant strides have been made in providing support and recognition to these families.
As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember and honor those who were lost and ensure that such practices are never repeated.
