Tameside charity takes baby loss support for fathers to national TV

A Tameside-headquartered charity has been featured on BBC Morning Live this week as part of Comic Relief, shining a spotlight on the importance of support for fathers experiencing baby loss.

Home-start HOST appeared on the programme through the powerful story of Ben Devall, who was supported by the charity following the loss of his baby with his wife, Poppy.

Ben was interviewed by James Bye, known for his role in EastEnders and as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. James has previously spoken publicly about experiencing infant loss with his wife, Victoria. Their conversation explored the emotional impact of baby loss on fathers and the importance of creating safe spaces where men feel able to open up and seek support.

The feature also included a walk-and-talk session in Audenshaw, where Ben was joined by James and fellow dad Mike Gibbons, who has also received support. The group took part alongside family support coordinator Wesley Claridge as part of the charity’s Dad Matters programme.

Speaking on the programme, James said: “My wife and I are proud parents to four beautiful boys, but our baby journey hasn’t always been straightforward. As a family we have experienced miscarriage, and that sense of loss at times can feel overwhelming.”

The segment highlighted Dad Matters, a pioneering programme founded in Greater Manchester by CEO Sarah Cook. The initiative focuses on supporting fathers’ mental health and helping dads build strong, positive relationships with their children from the earliest stages.

As a charity rooted in Tameside, Home-Start HOST supports families locally and across Greater Manchester, working with those facing challenges such as isolation, mental health difficulties, financial pressures and bereavement.

Earlier this week, Ben also joined Greg James during his Comic Relief challenge, cycling 1,000km across the UK on a tandem bike to raise awareness. Now working as a teacher, Ben volunteers with Home-Start HOST, helping to support other fathers across the region.

Following the national exposure, the charity is encouraging more people in Tameside to get involved, whether through volunteering or fundraising, to help reach more local families in need.

Sarah Cook, CEO of Home-Start HOST, said: “Parenting can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming, particularly when families are facing loss, isolation or other pressures. For twenty years I’ve seen first-hand the difference that compassionate support can make. Our volunteers provide practical and emotional help when it’s needed most.”

Home-Start HOST relies on a dedicated network of volunteers, who complete a comprehensive 12-week training programme recognised by the Investing in Volunteers ward, alongside support from partner organisations and community fundraisers.

Sarah added: “Every volunteer and every supporter makes a real difference. Whether someone can give a few hours of their time, fundraise, or help spread the word, it ensures families don’t have to face difficult times alone.”

To find out more about volunteering, fundraising, or joining the Great Manchester 10K as part of Team Home-Start HOST, visit the charity’s website.