Mother-of-three Symantha Parr will head a SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and Kids peer-support service in the region as part of a broader campaign by SIDS and Kids WA.

The service kicked off today with free education sessions at Albany Hospital.

Hosted by SIDS and Kids WA education officer Ellie White and Reduce the Risk of SIDS in Aboriginal Communities (RROSIAC) coordinator Sharron Yarran, the sessions offered safe-sleeping advice and information specific to Indigenous communities.

After finding SIDS and Kids WA services an invaluable support following the stillbirth of her first baby in September 2004, Ms Parr decided to form a support group for the Albany community to help those affected by the loss of a child.

“After coping with the loss of my son Jet, I can understand what people go through when they lose an infant or a child and how much the SIDS and Kids counselling services can really help get through the grieving process,” Ms Parr said.

“However, being in the country, it’s hard to get up to Perth to attend support meetings so I thought it would be great for Albany residents to have someone in their home town to chat – someone who understands first-hand what they are going through.

“I would encourage anyone who’s lost or been affected by the loss of a baby or a child to get in touch with our support line; no matter how long ago it happened, we’re here to help.”

Ms Parr will operate a telephone support service as well as provide home and hospital visits and host informal get-togethers and group sessions for residents of Albany, and the surrounding areas of Denmark and Mt Barker.

The support line is 1800 686 780.

Albany MLA Peter Watson said he was thrilled with the new services SIDS and Kids were offering in the area.

“I have been a strong supporter of SIDS and Kids for many years and believe the work it does to raise awareness of SIDS, as well as to invest in research into the syndrome, is invaluable,” Mr Watson said.

“I hope all members of the Albany community – particularly parents and health-care workers – get behind these critical education sessions that I have no doubt will help save lives.”