Zachary Geddis Break the Silence Trust
The Zachary Geddis Break the Silence Trust (ZGBTST) was launched in October 2017 on what would have been Zachary’s 21st Birthday. Zachary died through suicide leaving behind a devastated family and wide circle of friends.
Compassionate Care
In the months following Zachary’s passing it became evident that more mental health provision was needed across Northern Ireland to help other individuals struggling everyday, to reach out, feel safe and understood in a caring and compassionate environment.
Developed by his family and currently overseen by his sister, Yasmin Geddis, ZGBTST provides immediate, free of charge and professional mental health services to the community from its mental health centre based in Coleraine.
Rapid & Responsive Care
With an average of 250 people from age eight to eighty-eight accessing services on a weekly basis, what used to be an online, one-woman team has now grown into a relied upon, trusted community service.
Initial screening of clients is undertaken to ensure they are allocated the appropriate and relevant service that meets their needs which can include counselling, mentoring, support groups, education programmes or advocacy.
Breaking the Silence
Yasmin’s passion and energy has mobilised invaluable support from a range of counsellors who voluntarily support ZGBTST by offering their services in niche areas such as CBT Counselling, Arts & Expressive Therapy or Youth Therapy.
Designated hubs provide the opportunity for peer group support for men, women, children and LGBTQIA+. A variety of education programmes encourage the development of self-care, mindfulness and resilience building skills in all ages.
Changing Lives
ZGBTST aims to make a difference, not solely with the individuals directly supported and their families, but also to advocate for change within the system to protect and prevent the further mental health deterioration in Northern Ireland.
Led by Yasmin, an award-winning campaigner, ZGBTST commits to continue leading the charge in breaking the silence on mental health issues by sharing personal experiences, thoughts and recommendations for a better future.
Other partners who are making a difference
Identifying the right network of dedicated and ambitious partners has enabled us to deliver on our charitable purposes and activities. Here are just some of the life-changing projects that our grant partners have been involved in.
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Crossroads Care NI
Crossroads Care NI is dedicated to supporting, serving and strengthening carers and those with care needs by providing person-centred comprehensive care solutions.
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Think Malawi
Think Malawi supports sustainable, grassroots projects in Malawi which help improve life outcomes for underserved children and young Malawians through access to education.
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The Happiness Cafés
Started in 2019, the Happiness Cafés offers much more than just a cup of coffee; it promises a supportive community and a pathway to joy and connection for those dealing with memory loss.