An Erskine woman whose charitable efforts have helped support more than 50,000 families, veterans and children, has been recognised at the Pride of Scotland Awards.
Jean Cumming started early intervention counselling charity ‘Crisis’ with just £100, after witnessing a lack of support, guidance and counselling during her time working in the NHS.
Launching in March 1996, the charity focuses on preventative care, helping people with their mental health before it develops into an emergency.
Today, Crisis has more than 90 volunteer therapists helping people across Scotland, working with children, teenagers and adults to reduce suicide and self-harm, and reduce the risks associated with poor mental health.
Receiving her Lifetime Achievement Award at the glitzy bash, 72-year-old Jean said she was overwhelmed to be recognised.
She said: “What we do works.
“We give early intervention and match the therapist to the client, who they can see for as long as required.
“There have been times when it has been hard to keep the door open but I’m proud that we have.”
Around 40 per cent of the people Crisis help are children and teenagers, along with a number of veterans who have unresolved issues from their time in the military.
The Erskine-based charity also works with migrants and asylum seekers who have experienced issues adapting to their new home or have suffered acute trauma prior to fleeing to Scotland.
The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards, with TSB, will be held tomorrow night (Tuesday), with nominees, winners, and guests of honour enjoying a glittering, red carpet ceremony at the historic Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh.
Including an exclusive performance by Scottish musical duo Saint PHNX, the awards - which celebrate ordinary people doing extraordinary things - will then be broadcast on STV in July.
And host Elaine C.Smith is delighted to be back at the helm of the Awards.
She told us: “It’s an honour to host the Pride of Scotland again and shine a light on unsung heroes from across this great nation.
“These heroes rarely seek attention yet what they do changes and transforms the lives of others – whether that’s in one simple act or in a lifetime’s work. It’s going to be a magical evening and I’ve got my tissues at the ready as there is going to be a whole lot of greetin’ going on.”
Other winners on the night included four-year-old Zac Gunn, 12-year-old Kieran Reid, and six-year-old Mila Sneddon, who all picked up the ‘Child of Courage’ award
PC Clare Chalmers, 55, was recognised for her efforts in the Emergency Services Award, with Steven Carr, 56, and Lucy Smith, 28, given the ‘Special Recognition’ award.
Louise Russell, 47, received the TSB Community Hero Award and 26-year-old Jack Smyth received The Prince’s Trust Young Achiever Award.
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