Clanmil Housing has named PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity as its charity partner for the year, launching a programme of fundraising and awareness activities across Northern Ireland.
The housing association’s staff will take part in fundraising initiatives throughout the year, alongside efforts to encourage open conversations about mental health, suicide prevention and emotional wellbeing.
PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity provides free, confidential counselling and crisis support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental ill health or emotional distress, as well as support for families, friends and those bereaved by suicide. The charity receives no government funding and relies on fundraising, donations and partnerships to sustain its services.
Carol McTaggart, chief executive at Clanmil, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity and to support the vital work they do with individuals, families and communities across Northern Ireland.
“At Clanmil, we know that a home is about much more than the building itself. It is about creating places where people feel safe, secure, connected and supported. That is why our partnership with PIPS Charity feels like such a natural fit with our values and our commitment to the wellbeing of our customers and communities.
“We are looking forward to working with the team at PIPS charity over the coming year, getting our colleagues involved and helping to ensure more people know that they do not have to face difficult times alone.”
Renee Quinn, chief executive of PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, said: “We are delighted that Clanmil has chosen PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity as its charity partner for the year, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone across the organisation for their support.
“There is a really meaningful connection between our two organisations. A home is about much more than bricks and mortar, it is about feeling safe, secure and part of a community. Clanmil’s work is rooted in supporting people and creating strong communities, and those values align closely with our own belief that everyone should have somewhere to turn when life becomes difficult. Suicide prevention is not something any one organisation can tackle alone. It takes charities, organisations and communities working together to raise awareness, challenge stigma and make sure people know that help is available.
“Over the coming year, Clanmil’s support will help us reach more people with that message while raising vital funds to keep our counselling and crisis services free and accessible. We’re looking forward to working with the Clanmil team and seeing colleagues across the organisation get involved. Together, we have an opportunity to make a real difference – not only through fundraising, but by starting conversations, raising awareness and helping people across our communities know that they never have to face difficult times alone.”
The partnership is also intended to challenge the stigma that can prevent people from seeking support, with both organisations aiming to encourage more connected communities where people feel able to talk about their mental health and reach out for help.
Main image: Nigel McGrath, Clanmil; Renee Quinn, PIPS; Carol McTaggart, Clanmil; Lisa Abell-Farrelly, PIPS
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