A service of remembrance for families in the south who have experienced the death of a child is to be held later this month.

The Children's Services at Cork University Hospital (CUH) and Mercy University Hospital (MUH) are holding a multidenominational service on January 28.

This marks the first service of its kind as it involves the children's units and other services at CUH and MUH that have cared for children who have died, such as the intensive care units (ICU) and Emergency Departments (ED).

"The death of a child is a devastating experience for parents and family members. This new multidenominational service of remembrance provides an opportunity for the hospital community to come together with parents and families to remember their child, to offer support and to comfort one another at what we hope will be a very gentle and reflective ceremony," commented one of the organisers and member of the chaplaincy team, Daniel Nuzum.

The service will include readings and music and there will also be an opportunity for families to present a decorated keepsake and to light a candle in memory of their child. They can also write an inscription in the Book of Remembrance if they wish.

The service will take place on Wednesday, January 28, at 6.30pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Western Road in Cork. After the service, parents are invited to join hospital staff in the adjoining parish centre for refreshments. Entertainment will be provided for any children who attend.