GRIEVING parents affected by the loss of a baby are invited to attend a support event on Canvey later this month.

The talk, at St Nicholas Church, in Long Road, has been organised by a Facebook support group, called From My Womb, To My Heart.

Representatives from childloss charity, Daddys with Angels, will also be on hand to offer help and advice for parents who have suffered childloss.

The event takes place on Friday, February 19, from noon until 3pm.

Kerry Carter, 29, is one of six parents to lead the campaign, and hopes the event will highlight options available to families in the situation.

She said: “Our aim is to get people talking, and to give them a chance to grieve really.

“It seems to be a taboo, and there’s also the issue of families losing a baby 17 weeks into pregnancy or earlier.

“If this is the case, then they are not eligible for bereavement services.

“What we want to make clear is that every life matters, every heartbeat and loss of a baby deserves to be grieved. No matter the stage of pregnancy.

“Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of known support for mums, and worse still there’s nothing for dads.

“It’s absolutely heart-breaking to see what they go through.

“With that in mind, we have got Daddys with Angels who will be there.

“In the future, there are a number of projects we are looking to put forward, including a memorial garden.

“But in terms of this event, we’re just hoping to provide practical support.”

The support group was set up in August last year and organised a memorial service at St Nicholas in November which saw visitors light candles and sign a book of remembrance in memory of lost babies.

Stacey Lucas said she became involved with the campaign group after attending the church service.

She added: “Having experienced baby loss in August, the service came at the right time.

“I saw what the group was doing and felt I had to get involved. I am really pleased I did.

“I think it’s all about giving something back, raising awareness and trying to get support to others who may be in a similar situation.”