A Family’s Response: New Suicide Prevention Centre Opens 

A North East England family has established a third suicide prevention centre in response to a tragic loss. James' Place offers hope to men struggling with suicidal thoughts. The charity was founded after James Wentworth-Stanley, a 21-year-old student at Newcastle University, took his own life. Now, his family is determined to help others by providing immediate, accessible, and free treatment. 

Chief Executive Ellen O'Donoghue highlights the urgency of supporting men in crisis. "It's crucial that they get the right help very quickly," she emphasized. 

The charity's impact is evident. James' Place centres in London and Liverpool have already treated over 1,800 men. The new centre in Newcastle, located on Summerhill Street, welcomes self-referrals as well as referrals from health professionals, friends, or family. 

The Transformative Power of Help 

Connor Doyle, a 31-year-old survivor of a suicide attempt, offers a powerful testimonial to the life-changing support provided by James' Place in Liverpool. "You reach a point where it feels like the only option," he confessed. However, he went on to state, "Seeking help is essential. Professionals can open your eyes and show you there's another way. From the first session, I felt like a different person." 

A National Crisis & Growing Response 

Tragically, suicide is the top cause of death for men under 50 in the UK. The North East of England faces the highest rates of male suicide in the country. Determined to address this crisis, James' Place aims to open two more centres in England by 2026. The goal is to provide critical support to 2,000 men each year. 

Stigma and Silence: The Barriers Men Face 

Sadly, a cloud of stigma still surrounds mental health, particularly when it comes to men. Societal expectations that men should be strong and silent deter many from reaching out when they struggle. This creates a dangerous sense of isolation that can deepen suicidal thoughts. 

James' Place recognizes and challenges these harmful stereotypes. The charity's non-clinical setting provides a less intimidating environment for men. This may make them more comfortable opening up. Additionally, the staff are trained to understand the unique pressures and experiences faced by many men. 

The Power of Lived Experience 

One of James' Place's greatest strengths is their emphasis on peer support. Men who have been through similar experiences offer a crucial lifeline. This shared understanding creates a sense of community and demonstrates that recovery is possible. 

"Talking to someone who'd been where I was was so important," says Connor Doyle, who benefited from peer support. "It showed me that I wasn't alone, and there was a way through this." 

Breaking the Cycle 

Crucially, the work of James' Place isn't simply about crisis intervention. The charity also focuses on building longer-term resilience and equipping men with coping strategies. This approach can help break the cycle of despair and reduce the risk of future crises. 

The centre offers a variety of therapies and workshops. These cover topics such as stress management, emotional regulation, and building healthy relationships. Support extends beyond the individual. James’ Place aims to educate loved ones, enabling them to better understand and assist men in their lives who may be struggling. 

Challenging the Status Quo 

James’ Place challenges the traditional approach to mental healthcare. It acknowledges that waiting lists and bureaucratic systems can prove insurmountable for men in desperate need. By offering immediate, accessible, and personalized support, the charity removes these obstacles. It shows that addressing mental health requires flexibility and understanding. 

Community Impact: Changing Lives and Changing Minds 

The impact of James' Place extends far beyond just the individuals they treat. The charity ripples outwards, positively affecting families, friends, and the wider community. By supporting men in crisis, it also supports those who love them. 

"My son's getting better, but it's a journey for all of us," shares Sarah, mother of a man who received support from James' Place. "The charity has helped us understand what he's going through, and how best we can support him." 

Furthermore, James' Place is actively involved in raising awareness and tackling the harmful stigma surrounding men's mental health. The charity delivers workshops in schools, workplaces, and community settings. This work aims to open up conversations about mental well-being and encourage men to seek help before they reach a breaking point. 

A Public Health Issue 

Suicide is a complex issue, with no single cause. However, research consistently highlights the interplay between social factors and mental health. Poverty, unemployment, social isolation, and limited access to support services can all contribute to increased risk for vulnerable individuals. 

James' Place acknowledges this broader context. The charity advocates for public policies that promote mental wellbeing. It also collaborates with other organizations to address social factors that can fuel despair. 

A Call for Collective Action 

While James' Place provides a vital lifeline, it also highlights the need for a wider societal shift. Everyone has a role to play in dismantling the stigma around men's mental health. This means challenging outdated stereotypes about masculinity. Instead, we must encourage open and honest conversations about emotions, and promote help-seeking as a sign of strength, not weakness. 

We can all make a difference. It could be something as simple as checking in on a male friend or colleague who seems withdrawn. Or, it may involve advocating for better mental health resources within our own communities. 

"It Takes a Village" 

James' Place recognizes that the responsibility cannot fall solely on one organization. It embraces a collaborative, community-based approach to suicide prevention. By partnering with schools, businesses, and other organizations, the charity can amplify their message and reach those who may never walk through their doors. 

The Need for Support: Funding a Lifeline 

The work of James' Place comes at a cost. The charity relies on the generosity of donors and supporters to fund its life-saving services. Expanding to new locations and helping the growing number of men in crisis requires a significant financial commitment. 

"Every donation, no matter the size, truly makes a difference," emphasizes Ellen O'Donoghue, Chief Executive of James' Place. She explains that funds are used to hire qualified therapists, provide training, and maintain safe and welcoming spaces across their centres. 

Government funding plays a part. However, initiatives like James' Place often have to compete for limited resources within a strained healthcare system. This demonstrates the need for consistent support at all levels to ensure long-term sustainability. 

How You Can Help 

There are many ways for individuals to contribute to the work of James' Place and bolster men's mental health initiatives in general: 

Donate: Even small, regular donations add up. The James' Place website typically offers an easy way to donate online. 

Fundraise: Challenge yourself by taking part in a sponsored run, hike, or other event. This is a great way to raise money and awareness simultaneously. 

Volunteer: Offer your time and skills. James' Place may need help with administrative tasks, event organization, or community outreach. 

Spread the Word: Share information about James' Place and the issue of men's mental health on social media. Challenge harmful stereotypes in conversations with others. 

Talk about It: Open up about your own struggles with mental health if you feel comfortable doing so. This shows others that they are not alone and can encourage help-seeking. 

The Ripple Effect 

By supporting charities like James' Place, individual actions create ripple effects. It translates into saved lives, stronger families, and more supportive communities. Moreover, it demonstrates a commitment to dismantling the stigma that surrounds men's mental health, ultimately creating a society where help-seeking is the norm. 

Hope on the Horizon 

While suicide rates in the UK remain tragically high, there is reason for optimism. James' Place is just one example of the growing number of charities and organisations dedicated to tackling this issue head-on. With their innovative approach and emphasis on addressing the specific needs of men, they are making a significant difference. 

With increased awareness, funding, and action, there's hope that the tide can be turned. Every man who seeks help, every person who changes their attitude towards mental health, every act of kindness - all play a part in a brighter future. 

A Call to Action 

The loss of a young life to suicide is an unfathomable tragedy. Yet, from one family's heartbreak arose the strength and determination embodied by James' Place. Their efforts are a testament to the human spirit's ability to find hope even in the darkest of times. 

As a society, we must rise to the challenge of ending preventable deaths by suicide. Men deserve to know that struggling with their mental health does not make them weak. Asking for help is the bravest act they may ever take. 

Whether you're a man experiencing a crisis, have concerns about a loved one, or simply want to be part of the solution, remember: you are not alone. 

Where to Find Help 

James' Place: Visit their website for more information and to find the closest branch 

Samaritans (UK): Available 24/7 for confidential support. Call 116 123 or visit  

Mind (UK): Offers comprehensive advice and resources on a range of mental health issues. 

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Specifically supports men, with a helpline and webchat available from 5pm to midnight daily. 

A Life Worth Living 

Every man deserves to live a full and meaningful life, free from the crushing weight of despair. Together, we can build a world where seeking help is as commonplace as seeking treatment for a physical injury. A world where stigma is replaced with compassion and where no one suffers in silence.