SIDS and Kids ACT is urging all Canberrans to support Red Nose Day, tomorrow Friday 26 June, so it can continue to offer much needed bereavement support to families who have experienced the sudden death of a baby or child.

SIDS and Kids ACT CEO Lisa Ridgley says there are many Canberrans and families from surrounding regions who go through the heartbreak of losing a baby or child.

“It is so important for newly bereaved families to have access to free, trusted counselling, to attend support groups and to have access to peers. SIDS and Kids ACT has been helping families from Canberra and surrounds for more than 30 years,” says Lisa.

“We receive on average two new referrals every week and for every little one that dies, more than 60 people are impacted and may require counselling and support.

“Red Nose Day helps us fund support services along with research into the causes and prevention of the sudden death of babies during pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood. We also educate parents, carers and health professionals on how to reduce the risk of SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents.

Volunteers will be out in force selling Red Nose Day products and a host of retailers will be selling merchandise until the end of the month.

Supporters can get involved by purchasing Red Nose Day product or making a donation. Visit rednoseday.com.au