The Angel Trust, based in Bishop Auckland, has linked up with J Denhams Metal Ltd, after John-Jo Denham, who owns the County Durham-based metal yard, recognised the need for investment into men’s mental health, following an increase in mental wellbeing issues raised by his workforce, friends and in the local area.
Recent statistics published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that County Durham and Darlington have some of the highest suicide rates per capita in the country.
J Denhams Scrapyard is making a substantial investment into the Angel Trust Safe Night Hub in Bishop Auckland, pictured John Denham and Clair McGregor from the Angel Trust (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Angel Trust opened in 2018, and after years of diversification, now has a strong focus on health and mental wellbeing.
With two in-house counsellors providing suicide crisis and post trauma support, the Trust has expanded its services to meet the growing demand for mental health.
Its Safe Night Hub is the only licensed venue of its kind in the area, offering emergency accommodation and mental health support to County Durham and Darlington residents.
Many individuals referred from Hospital Discharge, or local authorities, have made a suicide attempt, or have suffered from previous trauma.
As part of the collaboration, Denham’s have made a large donation, which will help with the upkeep and recent expansion of the Safe Night Hub.
The Shildon-based organisation, which specialises in metal scrapping and production, has also agreed to offer potential interviews to suitable clients who may be facing homelessness or have suffered from a mental health crisis.
J Denhams Scrapyard is making a substantial investment into the Angel Trust Safe Night Hub in Bishop Auckland (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
John-Jo Denham, CEO of J Denhams Metal Ltd, said: “Mental Health is such a big problem across County Durham, and we have seen a sharp rise in issues amongst my team, our suppliers and my friends and family.
“I am so proud to support Angel Trust in the great work they do for our local community.
“I have known about the charity since its creation, and have seen firsthand the countless number of people they have helped in this time”
This collaboration will bring together two well-known organisations and will offer several benefits for both parties, including a significant financial boost for Angel Trust, which relies heavily on donations from the general public and local businesses.
J Denhams Metal Ltd will also receive training from the charity navigators on early-stage mental health support and offer free, confidential advice to all of its staff.
Clair McGregor, CEO of the Angel Trust Charity, added: “We are so grateful to Denham’s for their support with our Night Hub and Mental Wellbeing services.
“The metal yard is a fantastic local business that serves customers across the County and has shared values with the Trust, looking after local people and prioritising its community.
“Thank you from all of us at Angel Trust”