Solihull MP Saqib Bhatti has called for consistent support for bereaved parents during a parliamentary debate on baby loss.

Mr Bhatti, MP for Meriden and Solihull East and vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Baby Loss, spoke during the debate as part of Baby Loss Awareness Week.

He paid tribute to the parents who had bravely shared their experiences, as well as the charities and professionals working to support families affected by the loss of a baby.

He highlighted the lasting impact of baby loss and the need for families to receive compassionate care, regardless of where they live.

During the debate, Mr Bhatti paid tribute to the Lily Mae Foundation, established by Amy and Ryan following their own experience of baby loss.

The charity has provided therapy to more than 1,000 grieving parents and delivers training to professionals supporting bereaved families.

Amy and Ryan were recently awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of their service.

Mr Bhatti said: "After going through their own heartbreaking loss, they've built a charity that has helped more than a thousand bereaved parents with one-to-one support, memory boxes and training for staff.

"I was proud to jump out of a plane for them in 2023 to help raise some money and awareness for the amazing work they do."

The MP also raised concerns about a postcode lottery in bereavement support, with the help available varying depending on where families live.

He highlighted the growing pressures on smaller charities, which are often expected to do more with fewer resources.

During the debate, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care agreed with Mr Bhatti on the need for clearer national standards.

She said a new national services framework for maternity and child health was needed, acknowledging that the previous framework had lapsed and no current set of national standards was in place.

Mr Bhatti said: "In the debate, I was also glad to hear the Secretary of State agree on the need for proper national standards in maternity care.

"Charities like Lily Mae give families the kind of compassionate support they really need, and that work deserves proper recognition as we look to improve services.

"I will continue to champion the amazing work the Lily Mae Foundation does and keep raising awareness of this vital issue."

Baby Loss Awareness Week brings families, charities and communities together to remember babies who have died and raise awareness of support for bereaved parents.