This article is from page 6 of the 2013-10-15 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 6 JPG
A SUICIDE prevention and support group for teenagers set up in Clare last year has expanded its focus to include older people, due to an ever increasing need and demand. Mark Winder, who set up the organisation The William Winder Rainbow Foundation with his wife Caroline in memory of their teenage son, said the charitable organisation has expanded significantly during its first year. “We had to expand, we didn’t have a choice. “The need was there, especially among the farming community,” he said. The organisation currently employs 15 specially-trained councillors who provide counselling sessions to peo ple who may have suicidal tendencies. Doctors and Gardaí have also started to refer people to the charitable organisation, set up in memory of a young man who had dedicated himself to fundraising and helping others. “Every suicide I hear about is personal to me,” said Mark who continues to grieve for his 15-year-old son who took his own life before his junior cert exams. “I believe helping people in need is a fitting legacy to our son.” Caroline paid tribute to the many people who support the foundation. “It would not be possible without the community who came out and supported the annual fundraising event again this year,” she said referring to the Mardi Gras Ball held in the Bellbridge Hotel at the weekend. Anyone wishing to contact the foundation or any of its counsellors can do so through the website Williamwinderrainbowfoundation.ie or through their local GP. All calls are dealt with in strictest confidence.