Club Award to SOS East Belfast
The Club are delighted to award the 2021-22 John Savage Award and Bursary to the East Belfast Suicide Support Group Survivors of Suicide. This is awarded by the Club annually to the individual or group selected as giving great service to the Community.
President Steven was delighted to to present the Trophy and Bursary to Claire Curran at the Club meeting Monday 16 January 2023. Accepting it Clare greatly thanked for the recognition which means so much.
Addressing the Club Claire noted that SOS was formed in September 2006 as a response to the rise in suicides in the East Belfast Area. It was setup and is managed by some of the family and friends of those who lost their lives to suicide its aim being to provide help and comfort to those left behind by providing a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen, giving families a safe place to talk about their loss when they are ready and trying to answer to the many questions that are asked in the aftermath of a sudden death by suicide. She pointed out that they have grown over the last 16 years and now also provide support to those who have attempted suicide or had serious suicidal thoughts.
The Award is given in the name of a former member John Savage; a man whose mission was to serve youth and who had a distinguished career with the scouts. (more here)