A CHARITY has extended its opening hours to support bereaved parents over Christmas.

The Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity, also known as Sands, knows the festive period can be a particualrly sad time for parents who have lost a child so its helpline will be open everyday over the festive period, including on Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

The confidential helpline provides a safe place for anyone affected by the death of a baby to talk and get information from trained Sands support staff.

Dr Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands, said: “Bereaved parents tell us that Christmas can be highly emotional for them as they spend time with their close friends and families and remember their babies who have died. So we have responded by extending the opening hours of our helpline at a time they may need us the most.

“I would urge anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby to get in touch if they want to talk to us over the festive period.

"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.”

The Sands Helpline will open during the following hours: Christmas Eve: 10am to 3pm and 6pm to 9pm.

Christmas Day: 10am to 3pm and 6pm to 9pm.

Boxing Day: 10am to 3pm and 6pm to 9pm.

Tuesday, December 27 until Friday, December 30 between 9.30am and 5.30pm.

New Year’s Eve: 7pm to 12am.

New Year’s Day: 10am to 3pm.

Monday, January 2: 10am-3pm.

The Sands Helpline number is 020 7436 5881 or email helpline@uk-sands.org Visit uk-sands.org/support/how-we-offer-support or follow the charity on Twitter at twitter.com/sandsuk