Oldham dad Ben Devall speaks on BBC about baby loss support

An Oldham father has shared his deeply personal story of baby loss on national television, helping to break the silence around a subject that affects many families but is rarely discussed openly. Ben Devall, 30, appeared on BBC Morning Live alongside EastEnders actor James Bye, who has also experienced infant loss, in a conversation that highlighted the unique challenges fathers face when dealing with such devastating grief.

The feature included footage of a Dad Matters walk-and-talk session in Heaton Park, where Mr Devall joined other fathers and Wesley Claridge from Home-Start HOST for a supportive gathering. Dad Matters, founded by Home-Start HOST CEO Sarah Cook in Greater Manchester, provides crucial mental health support for fathers and encourages strong early relationships with their children. Mr Devall, who now works as a teacher, also volunteers to support other fathers who have experienced similar loss.

The conversation comes as Home-Start HOST calls on Oldham residents to get involved through volunteering or fundraising. The charity, which supports families across Greater Manchester facing isolation, mental health challenges, financial hardship, and bereavement, relies on a network of trained volunteers who complete a 12-week programme. Earlier this week, Mr Devall joined Greg James during his Comic Relief challenge, cycling 1,000km across the UK on a tandem bike to raise awareness of the...

Sarah Cook emphasised the importance of community support, saying: 'Every volunteer and every supporter makes a real difference. Whether someone can give a few hours of their time, fundraise, or simply help us spread the word, it helps ensure that families don't have to face difficult times alone.' The charity's work provides practical and emotional help when it's needed most, creating spaces where fathers can talk openly about their experiences without judgment.