Melanie Griffin - October
Over the years Melanie has worked tirelessly, balancing a young family while also volunteering for Sobs (Survivors of bereavement by suicide), she is part of a dedicated team that offers support to residents of Coventry that have been affected by suicide. Melanie offers her time by holding a support group with the aim to provide a safe, confidential environment in which bereaved people can share their experiences and feelings, giving and gaining support from each other, she also uses various social media platforms to reach out to people and provide support.
Melanie also works for Papyrus ( prevention of young suicide) and again continues to use this position to engage with vulnerable young people of Coventry and where possible signpost them to her support meetings.
Additionally, to increase awareness and raise funds for the charity Melanie partners up with local business to arrange bake sales, bag packs and the running of a Suicide awareness day in local parks. With surplus monies donated to Sobs Melanie has created a small library of educational leaflets and books that survivors can borrow and return the following month which can provide extra support at home. She also involves her family in fundraising activities and has so far raised £8,500 to go towards Young Minds Mental Health charity with Coventry.
The work that Melanie does to help the bereaved within Coventry is fundamental to their recovery she has made such a difference within their lives by providing hope and comfort by investing her time, efforts. Her actions truly reflect her character and she is a worthy recipient of this Coventry Good Citizen Award.