Barlow tragedy puts spotlight on local support group

 

Mr Barlow sang at the Olympic Games Closing Ceremony on Sunday night, just a week after his fourth child, Poppy, was delivered stillborn, drawing admiration from the nation.

 

The tragedy touched the hearts of millions but it has also highlighted an issue which has affected parents up and down the country, including some in the Welshpool and Newtown area.

 

Previously they have depended on family, friends or faith for support, but the leader of a local group has stepped forward to say “we are here to help”.

 

The Welshpool branch of SANDS – Stillbirth and neonatal death charity – was launched in November 2010 and has been offering support to parents when heartbreak strikes.

 

It was started by Rachel Emberton who suffered her own tragedy back in 2009.

 

“In September 2009, I lost my son who was stillborn and never found a reason as to why he died. I was 38 weeks pregnant and it was such a hard time,” she recalled. “As there was no local group I decided to open a support meeting in Welshpool. We run alongside Powys Sands which are based in Builth Wells.”

 

Welshpool Sands holds its meetings on the last Thursday of every month between 7-9pm at Welshpool Town Hall and Rachel said they play a vital part of the healing process.

 

“We offer free and friendly support to anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby,” she said. “Most importantly the meetings are confidential and run by people who have been affected by the loss of a baby.

 

“We also offer a befriender service by phone - 07810 233578 or email - powyssands@btconnect.com.”

 

For further information, visit www.powyssands.org.