Group set up after Black Isle suicide tragedy is 'definitely benefitting' others
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A CHARITY was set up by a Black Isle couple after their son took his own life will mark its second anniversary this month.
James' Support Group, which is run by Wendy and Patrick Mullery from Cromarty, holds monthly meetings in Inverness.
It followed the tragic death of their father-of-three son James to suicide at the age of 28.
Mr Mullery said they had gone from strength to strength since setting up the charity in March 2017 and hoped to help others who found themselves in the same situation as they did after losing their own son.
They have since launched a number of initiatives aimed at those affected by suicide and currently have 200 members – they have helped 500 people during that time.
The charity also operates a 24/7 helpline – as far as he is aware the only other similar service is operated by the Samaritans.
Mr Mullery said the growth of the group showed there was a need for such a service and added: "It's a bittersweet thing because the group is growing but it's only growing because there is a massive need."
Meetings are held in Inverness on the last Sunday of the month, at The Mercure Hotel in Inverness from 11am to 1pm, and the aim is to expand this to Tain, Dingwall and Aviemore later this year.
Mr Mullery said that, by helping others, they had also benefited. He said: "By being there, supporting others, we are definitely benefitting. We had five new people at the last meeting."
He also offers one-to-one sessions, offering to chat to callers, but he said it was also important that he had his own support network. "Dr Nicola Urquhart, a clinical psychologist, she is part of my support network and the Samaritans – I phone them to get appointments," he said. "Taking on people's problems you need to pass it on a little bit."
Mr Mullery said he was also trying to promote the message "it's okay not to be okay" by getting Scottish personalities, such as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, to film themselves saying the phrase and is hoping to edit the clips and make them available via the group's website.
As well as monthly meetings the group has launched a number of events aimed at getting men to talk more such as breakfast club events as well as setting up stalls outside Ross County FC on matchdays.
In addition the support group has new leaflets which have been distributed to all GP surgeries and funeral directors in the Highlands.
The group is not funded, relying solely on donations which can be made via its website, and for further information visit www.jamessupportgroup.com – the helpline is 07563 572471.
Related: Heartbroken family reaches out to others
Tribute to tragic dad raises thousands for charity
'Bittersweet success' of suicide support group
Suicide awareness group takes message to Ross County fans
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