Eleanor’s family joined us in the early 1970s, so that they could receive support caring for her sister Shirley. Since then, she has been instrumental in strengthening our community of care for everyone affected by mental illness, and a gift in her Will means that can endure for years to come.   

“Shirley was such a special person – her smile always shone through. She was just trying to live her life without the mental resources to do it. I was always determined that she’d be seen as the person she is. 

In the 70s, there were no books about mental illness and no support groups. But I was driven to be there for my sister. I was so determined she shouldn’t go into some deep unknown pit. And I’m so thankful that we had professional support. 

My parents and I helped set up the first UK family support groups – and these were a huge help for carers, as the members shared their experiences with others who simply 'just got it'. All the while I was concerned about how 'well' the brothers and sisters were faring.   

It was clear to me that they needed their own space where their issues could be discussed openly and in as relaxed and non-judgmental a way as possible. For the last 15 years I have had the opportunity to facilitate one of these support groups. 

We still have a long way to go in supporting both people dealing with severe mental illnesses and their families trying their best to support their loved ones in the community. It is a challenge which will endure for a very long time, and we all need to make the care of everyone involved a priority.”