FOREST of Dean MP Matt Bishop has reaffirmed his backing for Harry's Pals as he chaired the second meeting of a parliamentary group campaigning for better emotional support for parent carers of seriously ill and disabled children.

The Labour MP led the latest meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Emotional Support for Parent Carers of Seriously Ill and Disabled Children, bringing together campaigners, charities and parliamentarians to discuss the issue.

The meeting continued Bishop's support for Harry's Pals, the Forest of Dean charity established in memory of Harry Haines, which has been campaigning for specialist mental health support for parents facing the devastating diagnosis of a life limiting or life threatening condition for their child.

During the session, members heard what Bishop described as "powerful contributions" highlighting the urgent need for improved mental health support for parent carers.

Harry's Pals has been calling for parents to be offered free specialist counselling from the moment they receive the life changing news about their child's condition, arguing that early emotional support is vital as families begin navigating an uncertain future.

Mr Bishop said he was grateful to everyone who contributed to the discussion and pledged to continue working alongside Harry's Pals and parliamentary colleagues to help secure better support for families.

He said: "We heard powerful contributions highlighting the urgent need for better mental health support for parent carers.

"Harry's Pals has been leading the call for parents to be offered free specialised counselling when they receive the devastating news that their child has a life limiting or life threatening condition.

"I look forward to continuing to work with Harry's Pals and colleagues to help ensure every parent carer receives the emotional support they deserve."

The APPG is expected to continue exploring how specialist counselling and wider emotional support could be better integrated into care pathways for families across the UK.