SANDS (Stillborn And Neonatal Death Society) is a UK charity which was set-up in 1978 to support parents when their baby dies before, during or shortly after birth. In the UK alone, 16 babies a day are stillborn or die within the first 28 days of life; a devastating bereavement for the parents and for their family and friends. SANDS offer support through a national helpline (020 74365881), website (http://www.uk-sands.org">www.uk-sands.org), publications (which consist of a wide range of leaflets and books), and support groups which are located throughout the UK. As yet there is no support group located in South Wales due to lack of bereaved parents coming forward, although SANDS do have a qualified befriender in the area who is willing to hold meetings should the demand arise. A new group is due to start in Builth Wells called Powys SANDS, which has been founded by Shirley Gittoes. She has enlisted the assistance of qualified SANDS befriender Donna Tooth to be her mentor and help run this new group. The meetings are due to be held every first Friday of the month, commencing Friday, February 3, starting at 7.30 pm, and will be held at the Riverside Community Centre, Castle Street, Builth Wells. The one requirement to become a SANDS befriender is that they have suffered a stillbirth or neonatal death more than a year ago. Last year, Powys SANDS raised hundreds of pounds to enable themselves to get their group started. Shirley and her colleagues worked really hard by packing bags at a local supermarket and standing outside a local nightclub one night collecting the entrance fees. The demand for the Powys SANDS support group is high as there have been four stillbirth/neonatal deaths in Builth Wells in the last 12 months alone, and Builth Wells only has a population of about 4,000. Should any bereaved parents wish to train as SANDS befrienders, there is due to be SANDS training in the South Wales area in May this year. On Wednesday, March 22, at the Temple Bar Inn, Amroth, a charity pool knock-out competition is due to be held to raise money and awareness for SANDS in South Wales. The tournament will be held in memory of Charlotte Tooth who would have been five years old that day. On the night, there will be a raffle. If anyone or local businesses would like to donate any prizes, please contact Donna Tooth on the number below. Donations for prizes would be much appreciated. For any further information about SANDS you can contact Donna Tooth on 07917 466352.