'Bittersweet' success of suicide support group set up by Black Isle couple
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A SUPPORT group set up by a Black Isle couple following the death of their son now has more members than ever before.
Patrick and Wendy Mullery, whose son James took his own life, set up their support group to help those affected by suicide.
They are hoping to develop a number of initiatives which James's Support Group has trialled this year as they look ahead to 2020.
Mr Mullery, who lives in Cromarty, said: "2019 has seen a steady growth in our membership which is now at 200. This is bittersweet because our group is growing – but that means there are more people affected by suicide.
"Our monthly meetings in Inverness are a valuable source of support, providing a safe place to express your feelings, share your stories or just listen. We hope to extend coverage of these meetings to Tain, Dingwall and Aviemore during 2020."
Last month they launched a new breakfast club event at The Mercure Hotel in Inverness which was specifically aimed at helping men to talk more and Mr Mullery said they were planning a second one next month to be held at Ross County FC with the date yet to be confirmed.
He added: "We had our second Games, Giggle and Craic evening in Cromarty this month, it was great fun with plenty of craic and caffeine, and a full house.
"We hope to hold these more frequently during 2020, as they are well received and allow people to socialise without cost or alcohol.
"Ross County FC fans may well have noticed our stand at the car park entrance on many home matches – there is not much point if they are away. We will be at most home games right through to the end of March which sees the end of the peak period of October to March for suicides."
The group is also working with Police Scotland on new initiatives to encourage employers to be more aware of mental health and drugs issues in staff under the age of 25 years. He said: "Another initiative by Police Scotland was Stay safe at Christmas, which we attended at The Eastgate Centre with our stand.
"Our group is fortunate to be supported by Dr Nicola Urquhart, a clinical psychologist, she and I attended a Postvention-Assisting those Bereaved By Suicide (PABBS) training course held in Manchester which is the first of its kind in the UK. This trip was made possible by donations received and we are truly grateful to all who have contributed."
In addition the support group has new leaflets which are being distributed to all GP surgeries and funeral directors throughout the Highlands. Mr Mullery said: "If a family finds itself in the situation that my family found itself in October 2017, there is some glimmer of hope of support for them, something that was sadly lacking for us in our time of desperate need."
For further information visit www.jamessupportgroup.com
