Former Beside Project client and South Gloucestershire farmer Stephen Moorlen set up the Moments fundraising project in memory of his wife Carole after her death by suicide.
Earlier in the year, Moments made a donation to Beside, the suicide bereavement service which supported Stephen after Carole’s death. Recently Moments made another generous donation to a Second Step service, this time choosing to donate to The Sanctuary, a service based in Bristol which supports people in severe emotional distress.
Growing momentum
Stephen Moorlen’s commitment to supporting mental health organisations stems from a deeply personal place.
He said, “I knew nothing about mental health issues until my wife took her own life.” In the days and weeks after Carole’s death Stephen was supported by Second Step’s suicide bereavement service, Beside. He said the support he received from Beside and particularly his support worker, Clem, was wonderful.
A safe space for mental health
The Sanctuary provides a safe space for people aged 16 and over who are experiencing emotional distress or mental health challenges. The service, which opens seven days a week from 3pm to midnight, offers both face-to-face and phone support sessions, providing immediate help to those in need.
Stephen learned about The Sanctuary through a GP friend who refers patients to the service.
A touching tribute
Tammie Hemmett, Team Manager of The Sanctuary, along with Senior Case Worker Natasha, visited Stephen at his farm to receive the generous donation.
During the visit, Stephen showed Tammie and Natasha around the farm, introducing them to the horses and offering tea and cake. The cheque was officially presented in a memorial garden that Stephen has created as a poignant tribute to Carole and a symbol of hope for others struggling with mental health issues.
Tammie expressed her appreciation for the donation and the recognition it represents. “They are wonderful people supporting a wonderful cause.” she said. “And it’s lovely to see the hard work that the Sanctuary staff do being recognised in this way.”
Looking forward
Stephen and the Moments group have more events planned to continue their fundraising activities and help more mental health services in the community. Their ongoing efforts in Carole’s memory serve as a reminder of the importance of taking a moment – to reflect, to reach out, and to support one another in times of need.