A charity supporting bereaved parents in Cambs is branching out to invite members of the surrounding communities, who have also been affected by the death of a baby, to attend a new support group.

Stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands supports parents whose baby has died before, during or shortly after birth, and the groups are run on a voluntary basis by people who have themselves experienced the death of a baby.

Dr Clea Harmer, chief executive at Sands, said: “We hope the new Cambridgeshire Sands group will help and support bereaved parents and their families at a devastating time for them. Many bereaved parents tell us that other parents who have experienced the death of a baby are able to offer real understanding and empathy.

“I would urge anyone in the local area who is bereaved to come along to a group meeting in the future. We are dedicated to providing emotional support and information right from the early hours after a baby’s death, through to the weeks, months and years ahead.”

Bereaved parents from Cambridge, Huntingdon, St Ives, Chatteris, Royston, St Neots, Ely, March, Newmarket, Saffron Walden and Cambourne and the surrounding areas are more than welcome to drop in for a cup of tea and a chat.

The next meeting will take place on Monday, February 5, at 7.30pm at Tesco’s community space – adjacent to the tills – in Viking Way, Bar Hill. Regular bi-monthly meetings will take place on the first Monday of the month at the same venue.

For more information call Rose Abrehart, east network co-ordinator at Sands, on 07707 480020 or email rose.abrehart@sands.org.uk.

You can also go to the branch’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Cambridgeshire-SANDS-277404229352431 or follow the charity on Twitter using the handle @SandsUK.