Mind in Somerset hosts quilt project for suicide awareness

Shelagh's square, showing Matty's dog Lola, is the black and white one in the middle of row four <i>(Image: Mind in Somerset)</i>
Shelagh's square, showing Matty's dog Lola, is the black and white one in the middle of row four (Image: Mind in Somerset)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A volunteer at Mind in Somerset led a project commemorating those who have died by suicide.

As part of an exhibition, which was seen by many MPs last month, a quilt raised awareness of the impact of suicide on those left behind.

Shelagh Sheldrick's piece was part of the Speak Their Name Suicide Memorial Quilt exhibition at the Houses of Parliament.

She said: "Bereavement by suicide can be a very isolating experience, one where even your closest family and friends can't understand the depth of your grief and the long-term impact of losing a loved one this way will have on you.

"My son Matty died in November 2022 due to many recorded failings of the MH Trust that were supposed to care for him.

"Being supported by Mind in Somerset’s Suicide Bereavement Service has been my saviour during some dark times.

"When I felt ready, I took on a volunteer role at the charity to lead the Speak Their Name Suicide Memorial Quilt project, which has given me purpose after such a devastating loss."

She explained the importance of the project, adding: "For me, this project is all about connection.

"Each square tells part of the person’s story so they can be remembered for how they lived and not how they died."

Ms Sheldrick added that participants found the project a "positive experience," and also highlighted the importance of the monthly workshops hosted by Mind in Somerset for those wishing to come together to stitch in a supportive environment.

She said: "One bereaved mother stated that 'each square will be an individual example of expression - a personal message of love and remembrance'."

The exhibition was organised by Speak Their Name and comprised 20 panels from across 11 counties.

Ms Sheldrick plans to create a second quilt, which will be displayed in various venues around Somerset.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos