Health officials have made a direct appeal to the mother of a newborn baby whose body was found by a walker in Bangor, urging her to come forward and seek help.
Immediate Concern for Mother's Health
Fiona Giraud, Director of Midwifery and Women's Services at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said the immediate concern was for the mother's health, safety and wellbeing. "We have real concerns for the health of the mother," she said. "We recognise that she is likely to be extremely vulnerable. She may be fearful of seeking the support she needs through fear of identifying herself."
Speaking directly to the mother, Ms Giraud said: "First, I want you to know that our immediate concern is for your health, safety and wellbeing. We recognise that you may be feeling frightened, overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next."
Appeal for the Mother to Contact Authorities
"You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone," she added. "We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe, and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need."
"I am asking you personally, to please get in touch with us. You can speak to a healthcare professional, approach a police officer or attend a police station," Ms Giraud said. "If you are watching or listening to this appeal, please know that we want to hear from you. Please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
Police Seek Information from Public
Police are also appealing to the baby's mother, father and anyone who may have information that could help identify her. Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne said officers were concerned the mother may not currently feel able to ask for help. "We are concerned the baby's mother may not be in a position to reach out for support, so we are appealing directly to her, the father and those who may have knowledge, such as friends, family, neighbours or colleagues," she said.
Officers are asking anyone who knows a woman or girl who may have been pregnant and whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character in recent months to contact them. This could include someone who has withdrawn from friends, family or social ties.
"We appreciate coming forward is difficult, but inaction is not an option," DS Wynne said. "The mother desperately needs help. Anyone with information, we need you to do the right thing to ensure this mother gets the health support she needs. All names received will be treated with the utmost discretion and can be eliminated as the mother without delay."
Investigation Ongoing
The baby's body was discovered along the shoreline near the Siliwen Road area shortly before 5pm on Sunday, September 27, after a member of the public contacted police. An investigation is continuing and officers are working closely with partner agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the baby's death.
The coroner has been informed and a Home Office postmortem examination is scheduled to take place on Wednesday afternoon. Residents in Bangor may see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days as officers continue their enquiries.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex. A Major Incident Public Portal has also been established for anyone who may have information that could assist the investigation.
