JAMIE'S SANCTUARY

ABOUT US

My name is Debbieanne Marriott and I am the Chairperson here at Jamie’s Sanctuary. I would like to tell you why I decided to start this Community Group so that you all have an opportunity to get to know us…

ABOUT US

FROM JAMIE'S MUM......

I lost my son to suicide in December 2022. His name was Jamie Rae Aitchison, he was born on 30th November 2002. He was only 20 years old when he took his life. Jamie suffered from mental ill-health for many years – even as a child he struggled.

Jamie was not diagnosed with any type of illness such as ADHD or autism, he was tested but had no labelling, therefore deemed as a ‘troublesome boy’. Jamie did not know how to deal with his thoughts, feelings or emotions, so he acted out instead. Once he got to an age of being able to drink alcohol and further on in his life dabble with drugs, this is how he coped with the darkness in his mind. 

Jamie was to later realise that he suffered from the disease of addiction – unfortunately, Jamie only asked me for help two weeks before his passing.

He attended a few 12 step fellowship meetings, although decided he didn’t like them and very quickly started drinking and using again..

It all became too much for him and he told a couple of friends that he didn’t want to be here but swore he wouldn’t do anything stupid. Jamie went missing on the 27th December 2022 around 6:30pm and his body was found by five of his close friends on the morning of 28th December 2022. A harrowing phone call that no mother should ever hear. Not to mention the trauma that has been left with his friends who found him. This is a pain we will all have to deal with for the rest of our lives. 

This is where the thought to start a charity came, which is a working progress, as I hope that we can stop anyone else having to feel that suicide is the only answer and their loved ones never need to feel this pain.

JAMIE'S SANCTUARY

OUR PROMISE PLEDGE

Promise Pledge 1
We promise to lend a listening ear, providing a judgement-free space for those struggling with mental ill-health, addiction or suicidal thoughts.
Promise Pledge 2
We pledge to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, addiction and suicide - creating a supportive environment for everyone.
Promise Pledge 3
We commit to promoting self-care and emotional well-being - encouraging young people to prioritise their mental health and seek help when needed.
Promise Pledge 4
We vow to educate ourselves and others about the warning signs of suicide, addiction and mental health issues; empowering individuals to recognise and respond to those in need.
Promise Pledge 5
We will advocate for accessible and affordable mental health resources, working towards a society where no one is left behind or denied support.
Promise Pledge 6
We promise to create safe spaces where young people can openly share their struggles, fostering a community of understanding, compassion and empathy.
Promise Pledge 7
We pledge to provide guidance and resources for developing healthy coping mechanisms; empowering individuals to overcome challenges and build resilience.
Promise Pledge 8
We commit to collaborating with schools, communities and organisations to implement comprehensive mental health and addiction prevention programs for young people.
Promise Pledge 9
We vow to help anyone with their mental health, regardless of age, we will never turn anyone away and if we can't help you, we can signpost you to someone who can.
Promise Pledge 10
We will work tirelessly to inspire hope, instil a sense of purpose and remind young people that they are not alone in their journey towards mental well-being.