Oldham dad Ben shares baby loss story on tv for Comic Relief in bid to support other fathers
Date published: 18 March 2026
Ben Devall, his daughter, Etta (2) and wife Poppy, pictured at their home in Oldham
An Oldham father has shared his experience of baby loss on BBC Morning Live this week, helping to raise awareness of the support available for dads and families.
Ben Devall (30) featured in the programme after receiving support from Home-Start HOST following the loss of his baby with his wife, Poppy.
Ben was interviewed by the Eastenders actor and Strictly star, James Bye, who has spoken publicly about experiencing infant loss with his wife, Victoria.
The conversation explored the emotional impact of baby loss on fathers and the importance of creating spaces where men feel able to open up and access support.
The programme also featured a walk-and-talk session in Heaton Park, where Ben, James and Mike Gibbon, who has also received support, joined Home Start HOST family support coordinator, Wesley Claridge as part of the Charity's Dad Matters programme.
Dad Matters, founded in Greater Manchester by Home-Start HOST CEO Sarah Cook, supports fathers’ mental health and encourages dads to build strong relationships with their children from the earliest stages.
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."
Alongside highlighting the work of Dad Matters, the feature shone a light on the wider support provided by Home-Start HOST, which works with families across Greater Manchester facing challenges including isolation, mental health difficulties, financial pressures and loss.
Earlier this week, Ben also joined Greg James during his Comic Relief challenge, cycling 1,000km across the UK on a tandem bike, helping raise awareness of the realities many families face.
Now working as a teacher, Ben also volunteers locally to support other fathers who may be facing similar experiences.
The charity is now calling on more people in Oldham to get involved, whether through volunteering or fundraising, to help ensure families in the borough can access vital early support.
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 20 years I’ve seen first-hand the difference that compassionate support can make to families.
"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 award, alongside valued support from partner organisations and local 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 simply help us spread the word, it helps ensure that families don’t have to face difficult times alone."
To find out more about volunteering or if you'd like to support the charity by fundraising, or signing up to the Great Manchester 10K run as part of 'Team Home Start', visit: www.home-starthost.org.uk
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