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Help for those hit by suicide as Inverness-based James' Support Group gains Scottish charity status which will enable it extend support services to cover Dingwall, Tain, Wick, Thurso, Nairn and Aviemore


By Ali Morrison

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James Mullery.
James Mullery.

An Inverness support group which helps those affected by suicide has gained Scottish charity status.

The move means that James’ Support Group will be able to extend support services to cover Inverness, Dingwall, Tain, Wick, Thurso, Nairn and Aviemore.

The group was originally set up in 2017 by a Black Isle couple, Patrick and Wendy Mullery, following the tragic death of their father-of-three son James to suicide, at the age of just 28.

Since then they have been working to help and support others who have found themselves in a similar situation to themselves.

Mr Mullery said they were hoping to raise awareness of the issue of suicide and the support the group can offer over the next six months.

The period between October and April is the peak time for suicides.

He said: “We will actively help anyone who is bereaved by suicide regardless of when this happened, and anyone who currently has or has had suicidal thoughts.”

Despite Covid restrictions, the group has still been able to support people by meeting safely with the help of technology including Facetime and Zoom.

Mr Mullery said: “It is all that we can do but will extend to monthly meetings and family days for the children across these areas as soon as we are able to.

“Back in March when we went on lockdown to stem the spread of Covid-19, we saw many of us come together in our communities to help each other and look out for the vulnerable and those in need.

“It seemed like a return to happier times when you would help your neighbour and offer your time to help others, as we were all in this together and all affected in some way by this pandemic, even clapping for our wonderful NHS.

“At that point many of us who help and support others were grateful that we were coming towards the summer and not the winter.

“Well here we are now – facing a winter with the added pressures of Covid-19.”

Mr Mullery said the additional pressures coronavirus has imposed on many, including the reality or fear of unemployment and money worries as well as health concerns – could make the peak suicide period “a perfect storm in many ways”.

He added: “So I ask that we are all conscious of others.

“You never know what is going on behind that smile, so avoid a cross word and be considerate and courteous.

“If you meet someone that you know in the street ask them how they are – really ask them, not just the standard greeting of ‘how are you doing?’

“Call on your neighbours, keep in touch with your friends and family and above all look after yourself. Give yourself time each day for you, and make sure you are OK. These little things can make a huge difference, and may even save a life.”

Donations can be made via the charity’s website: www.jamessupportgroup.co.uk and the helpline is available 24/7 on 07563 572471.


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