Henley Town Council is proud to announce the approval of a new memorial tree, to be installed at the Sue Ryder Woodland in 40 Acre Field. This meaningful project, proposed by Henley residents Hannah and Jordan, aims to create a tranquil space for remembrance and reflection, honoring babies who were born sleeping or passed away during or shortly after birth.

A Community-Driven Vision
Hannah and Jordan, who tragically lost their daughter Isabella Rose in July 2020, have devoted themselves to supporting families enduring similar heartbreak. Reflecting on their journey, they shared:

"After our darling Isabella Rose was born sleeping in July 2020, we as a family have focused our energy on helping others who have been or are going through similar heartbreak. A short while after Issy’s funeral, we decided as a family that we would like a special place to honour Issy, which her brothers could also visit. We came across the memorial tree at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead, which offered us more than a safe space – it gave us insight into a shared grief, and comfort knowing we weren’t alone. However, this tree is sadly full, and other families won’t be able to benefit from what we are so grateful to have. This inspired us to explore the possibility of creating a tree within our local community."

Determined to bring their vision to Henley, Hannah and Jordan worked closely with Henley Town Council to identify an appropriate location. The Sue Ryder Woodland at 40 Acre Field was chosen for its serene, picturesque surroundings – an ideal place for reflection and healing.

A Lasting Tribute
The memorial tree, designed and crafted by renowned fabricator Gavin Hadley, will be a stunning sculpture, similar in design to the one at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead. Over time, its branches will be adorned with personalized leaves, each inscribed with the names of babies gone too soon.

Gavin’s previous work includes memorial trees for SANDS Berkshire and other significant projects for hospital gardens and Sue Ryder care facilities. His experience and artistry ensure the Henley Tree will be a fitting tribute, combining beauty with deep meaning.

A Call to the Community

The cost of bringing this vision to life is approximately £16,000. To make the memorial tree a reality, Hannah and Jordan are now focused on fundraising efforts. They hope to rally the support of the Henley community and beyond to help create this permanent and meaningful addition to the town. A Go Fund Me Page has been set up at https://gofund.me/41e95bf2

A Place for Healing and Reflection
"We hope the Henley Tree will provide a peaceful, family-friendly space for remembrance, and a source of comfort for families navigating unimaginable loss," said Hannah and Jordan. "We are so grateful for the support and consideration of the Henley Town Council in helping us move forward with this special project."

Henley Town Council is proud to support this initiative, recognizing its importance not just to those directly impacted but to the wider community as a place of compassion and connection. The Town Hall has previously been lit up for Baby Loss Awareness Week.

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