Thanks to volunteers
Marion Fellows has celebrated Volunteer Week with Wishaw charities Chris’s House and Families and Friends Against Murder and Suicide (FAMS).
Chris’s House offers refuge to those experiencing suicidal or intrusive thoughts and their families.
FAMS provides similar support including one-to-one and group counselling, telephone support, befriender peer support, advocacy and practical advice.
The MP for Motherwell and Wishaw thanked both groups of volunteers for their contributions to the local community and families affected by loss and grief and discussed local initiatives.
Marion said:“I want to provide my thanks to all the local volunteer groups.
“They work extremely hard to serve our community. From foodbanks to befriending services and welfare rights groups to churches and mosques, they are a credit to the area.
“I believe groups such as Chris’s House and FAMS who provide support around mental health and dealing with grief deserve particular recognition this year. The recent loss of local young men through suicide highlights the great need for these organisations and the work they do.
“I urge anyone who is affected by mental health or loss to get in touch with either charity and to also seek the help of other volunteer groups for whatever support they need. People can also call my office to find out what public or volunteer services are available.
“During times of austerity when some public services are stretched, volunteers often fill the gap and do so without reward or recognition. It is up to everyone in the community to show their support by volunteering if they can or simply offering local groups a‘thank you’.”